During difficult situations, we often seek solace in familiar comforts that bring us tranquility and ease. This might involve listening to music or strolling along the beach at sunset; engaging in reading, meditating, or praying. Personally, cooking serves as my sanctuary; it allows me to express creativity while being nurturing and productive at once. Globally, individuals are grappling with challenges – whether through illness, loneliness, exhaustion, fear, or financial hardships, coupled with the absence of the normalcy we once knew. Prior to the pandemic, self-isolation, and ‘social distancing’; lockdowns, and the struggle to provide sufficient financial resources, food, or medical attention for all who require it.
I find myself somewhat shielded from the most severe obstacles faced by others. Other than the need to work remotely, not being able to see friends and family, missing important celebrations, my husband needing to change out of his scrubs once he arrives home from work, and the occasional scarcity of toilet paper, my life continues largely unaffected. However, living in the uncertainty of this period is deeply disconcerting and exhausting – with questions looming about what lies ahead, whether more individuals will fall ill and perish, and when this chapter might conclude.
I wish for you to discover something that brings you comfort and serenity, and if you enjoy cooking as I do, this recipe may be a straightforward and delightful option you can prepare for yourself and your dear ones.
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2/3 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup pepitas
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 eggs
Begin by preheating your oven to 180 C. Prepare a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners. For the mashed pumpkin, roast approximately 500 g of Kent pumpkin (leave the skin on) drizzled with a bit of canola oil at 180 C for about 30 minutes or until tender. Once cool enough to handle, scoop out the flesh and mash it with a fork. To create the muffins, sift the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and sugar into a medium mixing bowl. Incorporate the pecans and mix thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk the vegetable oil, milk, mashed pumpkin, maple syrup, vanilla, and eggs together. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients quickly—if mixed too much, the muffins will become dense. Dispense the batter evenly into the muffin tin and sprinkle the pepitas on top. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the muffins return to shape when lightly pressed with your fingertips. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, either plain or spread with butter and drizzled with honey.
# Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins: A Nutritious Comfort Recipe for Challenging Times
In periods of uncertainty and anxiety, many of us flock to the kitchen seeking comfort. The process of baking can serve as therapy, with warm, inviting aromas wafting through the house creating a sense of calm and wellness. Nonetheless, comfort food doesn’t necessarily need to mean indulgence. It can indeed be both nourishing and delightful. Introducing the **Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins**—a wholesome, nutrient-rich recipe that provides an ideal blend of comfort and nutrition.
## Why Choose Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita?
Each of the key ingredients in these muffins contributes its unique health advantages, making this recipe not only delicious but also a nutritional powerhouse.
### 1. **Pumpkin: A Nutrient-Rich Superfood**
Though often linked to autumn, pumpkin’s health properties render it an excellent ingredient for any season. It is abundant in **vitamins A, C, and E**, alongside **fiber** and **antioxidants**. The bright orange hue of pumpkin is attributed to **beta-carotene**, a potent antioxidant that aids in maintaining eye health and enhancing the immune system. Moreover, pumpkin is low in calories, making it a fantastic addition for individuals aiming to uphold a balanced diet.
### 2. **Pecans: Heart-Friendly Fats and Protein**
Pecans, a type of tree nut, are rich in **healthy monounsaturated fats**, known for promoting heart health by reducing bad cholesterol. They also provide a solid source of **plant-based protein**, **fiber**, and vital minerals such as **magnesium, zinc, and manganese**. Additionally, pecans are abundant in antioxidants, assisting in diminishing inflammation and safeguarding the body from oxidative stress.
### 3. **Pepitas: Nutrient-Dense Pumpkin Seeds**
Pepitas, or pumpkin seeds, may be small but they pack a punch. They are loaded with **magnesium**, essential for muscle function, bone health, and energy generation. Pepitas are also a commendable source of **zinc** to bolster immune defense and **omega-3 fatty acids** beneficial for heart and brain health. Plus, these seeds add a delightful crunch and a boost of plant-based protein.
## The Comfort Found in Baking
During difficult times, baking becomes a form of self-care. The steps involved—measuring, mixing, and awaiting the muffins’ rise—can be soothing and grounding. Furthermore, the outcome is a warm, aromatic batch of muffins that can be shared with loved ones or savored as a satisfying snack throughout the week.
These **Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins** are not only comforting but also adaptable. They can be enjoyed for breakfast, as a midday treat, or even as a dessert. The blend of pumpkin, pecans, and pepitas creates a pleasing texture, while the natural sweetness of the pumpkin along with a hint of maple syrup or honey gives just the right level of sweetness.
## Recipe: Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins
### Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
– ½ cup pecans, chopped
– ¼ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup maple syrup or honey
– ¼ cup melted coconut oil (or olive oil)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– ½ tsp ground ginger
– ¼ tsp nutmeg
– ¼ tsp salt
– Optional: ¼ cup dark chocolate chips or dried cranberries for added sweetness
### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the oven** to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it with oil.
2. **In a large mixing bowl**, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt, whisking them together.
3. **In another bowl**, mix the pumpkin puree, eggs, maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk until uniform.
4. **Slowly blend the wet ingredients** into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in denser muffins.
5. **Gently fold in the chopped pecans** and pepitas, keeping a few aside to sprinkle on top of the muffins.
6. **Distribute the batter** evenly into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup approximately ¾ full. Top with the reserved pecans and pepitas for added texture and visual appeal.
7. **Bake for 18-22 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.