During challenging times, we frequently seek out comforting and familiar activities that bring us solace and tranquility. This may include listening to music, strolling along the beach during sunset, engaging in reading, meditating, or praying. Personally, cooking serves as my sanctuary; it allows me to express creativity, care, and practicality all at once. Around the globe, individuals are encountering difficulties – whether through illness, isolation, fatigue, anxiety, financial strain, or the absence of what used to be considered normal life. Prior to the pandemic, before self-isolation and ‘social distancing’; amid lockdowns, and the scarcity of finances, food, or healthcare for all who require it.
I find myself somewhat insulated from the more severe challenges that many face. Besides working from home, being unable to meet my friends and family, missing out on weddings, my husband needing to remove his scrubs at the front door upon arriving home from work, and the sporadic toilet paper shortage, my life continues on quite similarly. Yet, it is extremely disconcerting and exhausting to navigate through the uncertainty of this period – unsure of what the future holds, if more people will fall ill and perish, and when this uncertain phase will conclude.
I sincerely hope you can discover something that brings you comfort and serenity, and if you enjoy cooking like I do, this recipe is a delightful, straightforward option you can prepare for yourself and your loved 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
Preheat the oven to 180 C. Prepare a 12-hole muffin tray with paper cases. To prepare mashed pumpkin, roast approximately 500 g of Kent pumpkin (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 the flesh out from the skin and mash using a fork. For the muffins, sift the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and sugar into a medium-sized mixing bowl. Incorporate the pecans and mix thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, milk, mashed pumpkin, maple syrup, vanilla, and eggs. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mix quickly. Be careful not to overbeat as this may result in tough muffins. Evenly distribute the batter into the muffin tin and top with pepitas. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the muffins bounce back when lightly pressed with your fingers. Enjoy while warm or at room temperature, either plain or spread with butter and a drizzle of honey.
**Nutritious Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins for Challenging Times**
During times of distress and uncertainty, fueling our bodies with nourishing, comforting foods can serve as a significant form of self-care. Enter the pumpkin, pecan, and pepita muffin—a nutrient-rich and flavorful snack that is as adaptable as it is satisfying. These muffins not only offer a tasty way to lift your spirits but also deliver an abundance of nutrients that support your physical and mental health. Let’s delve into the reasons these ingredients are exceptional and how they combine to form a muffin that’s ideal for difficult times.
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### **The Power of Pumpkin**
Pumpkin takes center stage in these muffins, and justifiably so. This bright orange squash is a true nutritional powerhouse, teeming with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. High in beta-carotene, which our body converts to vitamin A, pumpkin aids in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin integrity. It also provides a generous amount of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, which can facilitate digestion and help you feel satiated for longer.
Beyond its health benefits, pumpkin contributes natural sweetness and moisture to baked goods, making it a fantastic foundation for muffins. Whether you opt for canned pumpkin puree or roast and mash your own, this ingredient brings a warm, earthy flavor that harmonizes beautifully with spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
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### **The Crunch of Pecans**
Pecans offer more than mere flavor enhancement to these muffins—they are a nutritional treasure. These creamy nuts are abundant in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which aid in lowering bad cholesterol levels and decreasing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, pecans are a good source of magnesium, a mineral vital for stress relief and muscle relaxation.
Moreover, pecans are rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, which can help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. Their natural sweetness and pleasing crunch make them an excellent partner to the tender, spiced pumpkin base of these muffins.
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### **The Versatility of Pepitas**
Pepitas, or pumpkin seeds, may be tiny, but they’re mighty in the nutrition department. These green seeds are brimming with protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals like zinc, magnesium, and iron. Zinc is especially recognized for its immune-boosting qualities, while magnesium can aid in encouraging relaxation and improving sleep quality—both crucial during trying times.
Pepitas also contribute a delightful crunch and nutty taste to these muffins. Sprinkle them on top for a decorative touch that adds texture and an added boost of nutrients. Bonus: they present a fantastic plant-based option for anyone looking to include more vegan-friendly ingredients in their meals.
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### **Why These Muffins Are Perfect for Challenging Times**
In tough moments, we often yearn for foods that are comforting as well as nourishing. These pumpkin, pecan, and pepita muffins fulfill those needs splendidly. They are simple to prepare, requiring pantry staples and seasonal ingredients that are budget-friendly and easy to find. The mix of complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein offers long-lasting energy to help you tackle your day, while the warm spices and organic sweetness provide a sense of comfort and indulgence.
These muffins are incredibly adaptable as well. They can serve as a quick breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or even as dessert. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a moment of tranquility, or toss them into a lunchbox for a healthful on-the-go option.
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### **A Simple Recipe to Try**
Here’s a straightforward recipe to kickstart your baking. Feel free to modify it based on your tastes or dietary preferences.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ¾ cups whole wheat or all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– ½ tsp ground nutmeg
– ½ tsp ground ginger
– ¼ tsp salt
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– ½ cup maple syrup or honey
– 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan variant)
– ⅓ cup melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
– 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 prepare a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
2. In a large bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt together.
3. In another bowl, blend the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, eggs, oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ones, stirring until just blended. Be mindful not to overmix.
5. Gently incorporate the chopped pecans and pepitas.
6. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups, filling each about ¾ full.