Pumpkin

A pumpkin is really a squash. It is a member of the Cucurbita family which includes squash and cucumbers.

Pumpkins are grown all over the world on six of the seven continents, with Antarctica being the sole exception. Pumpkins are rich in Vitamin A and potassium. They are also high in fiber.

Pumpkins are believed to have originated in Central America. Seeds from related plants have been found in Mexico, dating back over 7000 years to 5500 B.C.

Native American Indians used pumpkin as a staple in their diets centuries before the pilgrims landed. When white settlers arrived, they saw the pumpkins grown by the Indians. Pumpkin soon became a staple in their diets, too. They also brought seeds back to Europe, where they quickly became popular. Just like today, early settlers used pumpkins in a wide variety of recipes, from desserts to stews and soups. In addition to cooking with pumpkins, they also dried the shells and cut strips to weave into mats.