ME-Dawn

It is the peak of pumpkin harvest time and though pumpkins are
not generally one of the more popular cooked squashes, don't be
so quick to turn it away in the kitchen. While Jack-O-Lantern
pumpkins are abundant this time of year, if you are looking to
use pumpkin for cooking, you should choose a type that is
specifically grown for baking and eating quality.

Best Cooking Pumpkin
The sugar pumpkin - small in size, usually weighing
1.4 to 3.5 pounds

How to Purchase
Make sure the pumpkin is bright in color, free of
blemishes and solid/dense for its size.

Storing
Pumpkins may be stored at room temperature for up to
a month and in the refrigerator for 3 months.

How to Use
Pumpkins may be used the same as any other winter
squash.

Equivalents
Fresh pumpkin: 5 pound pumpkin is equal to about
4.5 cups cooked and mashed

Canned pumpkin: a 15 ounce can is equal to
1.75 cups mashed