Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds are one of the best sources of primary proteins and they are packed with vitamins and minerals. The protein content of pumpkin seeds is high, and in some varieties can reach up to 31%. Moreover, it is a complete protein with all the essential amino acids being

well supplied. A handful of pumpkin seeds will supply approximately half the daily protein needs of the average person, and a comparison with steak will show that the relative quantities of the essential amino acids in pumpkin seeds exceed those of steak. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of vitamins and minerals, particularly zinc and iron, the latter occurring in more than three times the concentration found in steak.

Pumpkin seeds are relatively inexpensive, and they can be incorporated into many dishes to improve the protein quality and to enhance the flavour. To prepare one’s own pumpkin seeds, simply remove the seeds from the pumpkin, and spread them out to dry. The seeds can also be dried in the oven, and a light roasting will make them extremely palatable. Hulled seeds are easier to buy than to prepare oneself, but the unhulled seeds can be eaten as a snack, or they can be ground fine in a coffee grinder to be used in bread or protein dishes. Used in this way they add spice to the food which compares favourably to commercial stocks and food flavourants, and they improve the nutritional value of the meal.