During challenging moments, we frequently seek solace in the familiar elements that bring us comfort and tranquility. This might involve listening to music, taking a stroll along the beach during sunset, indulging in a good book, engaging in meditation, or offering prayers. Personally, I always find refuge in cooking; it allows me to be inventive, caring, and practical simultaneously. Around the globe, individuals are dealing with tribulations – whether through illness, solitude, exhaustion, anxiety, financial struggles, or the distress of losing the normalcy that once defined everyday life. Before the pandemic, self-isolation, and ‘social distancing’; lockdowns, and the scarcity of resources like money, food, or medical assistance for those in need.
I find myself removed from the gravest obstacles that many are experiencing. Though I need to work from home, I miss seeing my friends and family, regret not attending weddings, my husband must remove his scrubs at the door when returning from work, and there have been the occasional shortages of toilet paper; generally, my life continues as per usual. Nonetheless, it is deeply disconcerting and exhausting to navigate the uncertainty of this period – not having clarity on what lies ahead, the possibility of more people falling ill or passing away, and when this phase might finally conclude.
I sincerely wish you can discover something that brings you comfort and serenity, and if you enjoy cooking like I do, this recipe might be a simple yet delightful creation you can whip up 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
Set your oven to 180 C. Prepare a 12-hole muffin tray with paper liners. To prepare the mashed pumpkin, roast around 500 g of Kent pumpkin (with the skin on) drizzled with a hint of canola oil at 180 C for approximately 30 minutes, or until tender. Once they are cool enough, scoop the flesh out and mash it with a fork. For the muffins, sift the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and sugar into a medium mixing bowl. Stir in the pecans. In a different bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, milk, mashed pumpkin, maple syrup, vanilla, and eggs. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients swiftly. Avoid overmixing to keep the muffins tender. Evenly distribute the mixture into the muffin tray and sprinkle pepitas on top. Bake for 25 – 30 minutes until the muffins spring back when lightly pressed. Enjoy them warm or at room temperature, either on their own or topped with butter and a drizzle of honey.
**Nutritious Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins for Challenging Times**
In times marked by uncertainty and pressure, nourishing our bodies with wholesome foods can create a sense of grounding and well-being. One such recipe that merges nutrition, taste, and a hint of indulgence is the pumpkin, pecan, and pepita muffins. Not only do these muffins serve as a delightful treat, but they are also packed with nutrients beneficial for your health and energy levels. Whether you’re adapting to a hectic schedule, managing stress, or simply craving a satisfying snack, these muffins fit the bill perfectly.
### The Benefits of Pumpkin, Pecans, and Pepitas
The key ingredients of these muffins—pumpkin, pecans, and pepitas—are nutritional powerhouses that bring a myriad of advantages.
– **Pumpkin**: This vibrant orange squash boasts high levels of beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, supporting immune health, vision, and skin vitality. Pumpkin is also rich in fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to keep you satiated longer. Its natural sweetness and creamy consistency make it an excellent baking addition.
– **Pecans**: These rich nuts offer a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats that benefit heart health. Pecans are abundant in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals like vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc. Their crunchiness adds a delightful texture.
– **Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds)**: Pepitas are a nutritional treasure trove, delivering protein, healthy fats, and various essential minerals such as magnesium, iron, and zinc. They are also rich in antioxidants and recognized for their anti-inflammatory traits. Adding pepitas on top of the muffins introduces a satisfying crunch and enhances nutritional value.
### The Appeal of These Muffins for Difficult Times
Amidst trying times, prioritizing nourishing and comforting foods is essential. These pumpkin, pecan, and pepita muffins cover all bases:
1. **Simple to Prepare**: The recipe is uncomplicated and requires little effort, making it perfect for busy days or when your energy is low.
2. **Cost-Effective**: The ingredients are inexpensive and widely accessible, allowing most households to enjoy this recipe.
3. **Versatile**: These muffins make for a quick breakfast, a midday snack, or even dessert. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, providing a moment of calm in a bustling day.
4. **Nutritious**: Rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and healthy fats, these muffins offer sustained energy while supporting overall health.
### The Recipe: Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins
Here’s how to create these tasty and nutritious muffins:
**Ingredients**:
– 1 ¾ cups whole wheat flour (or a gluten-free alternative)
– 1 tsp baking soda
– ½ tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– ½ tsp ground nutmeg
– ½ tsp ground ginger
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
– ½ cup pure maple syrup or honey
– 2 large eggs
– ¼ cup melted coconut oil or olive oil
– ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ½ cup chopped pecans
– ¼ cup pepitas (plus extra for topping)
**Instructions**:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, maple syrup or honey, eggs, melted coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until combined smoothly.
4. Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
5. Incorporate the chopped pecans and pepitas gently.
6. Distribute the batter evenly in the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full. Add more pepitas on top for extra crunch.
7. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the muffins cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
### Customizing Your Muffins
One of the greatest aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily modify it to fit your tastes or dietary requirements:
– **Gluten-Free**: Use a gluten-free flour blend in place of whole wheat flour.
– **Vegan**: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) and use