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BASICS
About: This gourmet oil is a culinary treasure so rich in flavor and dramatic in color, you’ll want to drizzle it on everything. But do not, I repeat, DO NOT use it us as a cooking oil. This will destroy it’s nutritional value and become bitter in taste. Simply add it as a final, flavorful touch to all your meals with a deep flavor and smooth texture. This oil comes from a special variety of European pumpkin. Its toasted dark green seeds is what gives the finished product its distinct nutty aroma and dark color. Cheaper brands of pumpkin seed oil use white pumpkin seeds that produce a lighter oil—avoid if you can.
AKA: pepita oil • the Green Gold
Brand: La Tourangelle
Origin: Syrian Region of Austria
Plant: Cucurbita maxima
History: Christopher Columbus brought pumpkins and other squash back to Europe where Austrians later started producing seed oil from Austrian-grown pumpkins.
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HEALTH
Nutrients: vitamin A, D, & E • polyunsaturated fatted acids
Benefits: promotes hair growth • moisturizes the skin • lowers cholesterol • relieves some menopause symptoms (hot flashes, joint pain, headaches) • possibly treats an overactive bladder
Substitutes: sesame seed oil
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SHOP
Store: Specialty oil shops or health food stores. I actually found mine at Marshalls in the food section!
Online: La Tourangelle • Amazon
Other Products: Walnut Oil • Pecan Oil • Pistachio Oil
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PREPARE
Store: Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Unopened will last about 14 months. If opened use within 6 months, or keep in the fridge for up to 1 year.
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EAT
Taste & Texture: nutty • thick • roasted
Uses: vinaigrettes & sauces • drizzle on soups or pastas • pizza • baked goods • vegetables • meats • rice • add to morning coffee
Recipes:
Vanilla Ice Cream (via La Tourangelle)
Austrian Cheese Spread (via Food & Wine)
Nordic Oatmeal (via Yummy Beet)
Greek Yogurt with Pumpkin Seeds & Oil
What do you know about Pumpkin Seed Oil?
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