Spiced Pumpkin Smoothie Recipe
This Spiced Pumpkin Smoothie is a delightful and nourishing treat that combines the earthy flavor of steamed pumpkin with the richness of milk, complemented by a touch of sweetness and warming spices. Itβs a quick and easy way to enjoy the seasonal goodness of pumpkin, packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants. Perfect as an after-school snack for kids or a post-workout refuel, this smoothie provides a natural energy boost to keep you feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Serve this smoothie alongside our Date Brownie Energy Bars or a bowl of Oranges with Cottage Cheese for a wholesome and satisfying snack that balances protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it the ideal choice for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or post-exercise recovery.
Ingredients for Spiced Pumpkin Smoothie
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Kaddu (Parangikai/Pumpkin) | 1 cup (chopped) |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1-1/2 tablespoons |
| Cardamom (Elaichi) Pods/Seeds | 1 (powdered) |
| Granola | For garnishing |
Nutritional Information
This smoothie is rich in essential nutrients like vitamins A and C from the pumpkin, and provides a good dose of calcium from the milk. The cardamom adds an aromatic touch while promoting digestion. Granola adds a crunchy texture, making each sip even more enjoyable.
Preparation Time
| Task | Time |
|---|---|
| Preparation | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 15 minutes |
Instructions for Spiced Pumpkin Smoothie
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Steam the Pumpkin: Begin by steaming the chopped pumpkin pieces until soft and tender. This will help release its natural sweetness and make it easy to blend.
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Cool the Pumpkin: Allow the steamed pumpkin to cool completely before moving on to the next step. This prevents the smoothie from being too warm and helps retain its creamy texture.
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Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the cooled pumpkin, milk, sugar, and powdered cardamom. Blend until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
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Add Ice for Chill: To instantly cool the smoothie, add a few ice cubes to the blender and pulse for a few seconds.
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Serve and Garnish: Pour the smoothie into glasses and garnish with a sprinkle of granola on top for added crunch and texture.
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Optional Pairings: Serve the Spiced Pumpkin Smoothie with Date Brownie Energy Bars or a healthy bowl of Oranges with Cottage Cheese for a balanced snack. Itβs the perfect combination after a workout or as a nutritious evening treat.
Tips:
- For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk.
- Add a dash of cinnamon or ginger for an extra zing if you like spicier smoothies.
- You can refrigerate any leftover smoothie for up to 2 days for a quick snack later on.
Enjoy the comforting flavors of fall in a glass with this easy-to-make Spiced Pumpkin Smoothie. Whether as an energy booster post-workout or a satisfying snack, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and keep you feeling energized throughout the day!
