The Best Roasted Pumpkin Seeds in the World

After more than six decades walking this third planet from the sun it has occurred to me that I've roasted a lot of pumpkin seeds over the years.  It all started with my parents following the carving of the jack-o'-lanterns.  This continued into adulthood and more jack-o'-lanterns. And it has evolved to serious pumpkin growing specifically for the seeds. 

I've grown pumpkins for carving, roasting on the grill or making pie filling. You can get a can of pie filling just about anywhere.  But where can you get a good roasted pumpkin seed?   If you're a fan of roasted pumpkin seeds you absolutely need to check this out.  Not only are these pumpkins terrific for fall décor they are prolific seed producers.  Furthermore, their seeds lack the tough outer hulls of other more pedestrian pumpkins making them perfect for roasting.  On top of that they're a bush-variety and don't take-up large amounts of space in the garden.  

Behold the Kakai pumpkin....  

click on images for a closer look

A fetching bright orange pumpkin accented by dark green digital camouflage.  A non-GMO, organically-raised gourd of about 3 to 8 pounds.  

And chock-full of hull-less green seeds - pure kernel - without the tough shell.  All you have to do is open them up, insert your hand into the pulp and all of those seeds will slip right out.  And plenty of them too.  

Pour your seeds into a stock pot and add enough cold water so that they float freely.  Add to that as much kosher salt as you can stand (about a half cup - give or take).  Bring your pot to a boil and then turn-down the heat and simmer uncovered for about 20 to 30 minutes. 






Drain your seeds in a colander.  
  

Spread them out on a cookie sheet and bake at 300 degrees - stirring every 30 minutes with a spatula for about two hours.  Since ovens vary when your seeds begin to snap, crackle and pop they are telling you they are almost done.  

Finished product!  

A light, nutty, salty, snack that is full of vitamins, minerals and healthy antioxidants.  I am told that they promote prostate health too.  Serve with a frosty beer during the Packer game and at deer camp. But beware - these seeds can be addictive. 

 

If you  want to avoid eating your entire harvest in very short order I recommend that you package most of them with your FoodSaver Vacuum Sealer.  They'll keep for up to a year in the freezer.

Want to try something really decadent?  Mix a bag of M&Ms, dried cranberries and beer nuts in a big bowl along with these.

Cheers!