Carving pumpkins can be a lot of fun, but it is also a lot of work. The inside must be scooped out before sculpting faces or other graphics with a knife or a plastic carving tool. The innards have a number of uses and do not have to be thrown away – at least not all of it. Consider these five ways to use fresh pumpkin pulp, and save it instead of dumping it into the trash.
Make Squishy Play Bags for Kids
Squishing bags of pumpkin guts might not sound like fun to adults, but kids love it. When cleaning out your Halloween pumpkins, save some of the innards to create a few play bags. Use zipper-top freezer bags instead of the sandwich variety. Also, be sure to tape the tops instead of just zipping them closed to avoid a huge mess.
Use it to Create Halloween Pumpkin Displays
Some of the most creative displays with pumpkins are also the easiest to create. You do not have to get rid of the innards or pulp. Some people create a puking pumpkin, and they keep the seeds and stringy insides. Using the photo as a guide, create a big pile of squash vomit. To add color and an extra measure of repulsiveness, mix in gummy worms or candy corn. Add a sign that refers to what might happen after eating too much candy. Although it is gross, it is creative and cute in a warped sort of way.
Make Ultra-Moist Muffins or Bread
The innards of pumpkins can be used for something edible and incredibly tasty. Separate the seeds from the pulp, and save them for roasting. Save the rest of the stringy mess for making muffins or nut bread, but before stirring it in instead of zucchini or bananas, run it through a food processor or blender. Use the puree in your favorite muffin or nut bread recipe. It will turn out ultra-moist and flavorful, and no one will guess what you used.
Prepare Pumpkin Stock for Soups and More
Search grocery store shelves for creamy squash soup and you will discover few options and very high prices for small quantities. Save the innards minus the seeds for soup stock. Add it to your favorite cream soups for color, nutrition and flavor. A can of condensed cream of chicken soup can be transformed into pureed pumpkin soup in a matter of minutes. Add cooked white rice and chunks of fully-cooked chicken to make a complete meal.
Make a Skin-Softening Natural Moisturizer and Exfoliate
Store-bought skin moisturizers and exfoliates is expensive, at least top-quality varieties that contain natural ingredients. Make it instead of buying it from a store. Save the innards when cleaning out and carving your Halloween pumpkins, and do not discard the seeds. Puree the pulp and seeds in a blender, and transfer it to a container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep it refrigerated until ready to use, and discard it after three days. Stir in dry rolled oats just before applying to dampened skin with a facecloth or a bare hand. Allow it to remain on the skin for a few minutes before thoroughly rinsing it away. Your skin will be soft and incredibly smooth, and nothing will go to waste after carving your Halloween pumpkins.
Source: Advanced Crafting and Green Living Experience