Elevate your snacking game with these Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds – a flavorful and nutritious treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, take center stage in this recipe, boasting a delightful blend of garam masala, red chili powder, and ground turmeric. These aromatic spices are married with the rich, nutty taste of roasted pumpkin seeds, resulting in a snack that’s not only satisfying but also brimming with health benefits. Whether you’re looking for a crunchy addition to your party platter or a guilt-free munchie for movie night, these homemade roasted seeds are sure to hit the spot. With just 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes in the oven, you’ll have a wholesome, spicy snack ready to enjoy.
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup pumpkin seeds, washed and dried
- 2 teaspoons garam masala powder
- 1/3 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Salt, as required
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
- 1/2 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350ºF (175ºC). This step ensures that your oven is ready to roast the pumpkin seeds to perfection.
- Toss Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the washed and dried pumpkin seeds with the garam masala powder, red chili powder, ground turmeric, and a pinch of salt. Toss the ingredients together to ensure the seeds are evenly coated with the spice mixture.
- Spread on Baking Sheet: Transfer the spiced pumpkin seeds onto a baking sheet. Make sure they are spread out in a single layer to facilitate even roasting.
- Roast in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the seeds for approximately 20 minutes. During this time, remember to flip the seeds occasionally for even browning.
- Cool and Drizzle: Once the pumpkin seeds are beautifully golden and roasted to perfection, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.
- Lemon Juice Finish: After the seeds have cooled, drizzle them with fresh lemon juice. This adds a refreshing zing that complements the spices wonderfully.
- Serve: Your Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are now ready to serve. Enjoy them as a standalone snack or incorporate them into your favorite recipes for added crunch and flavor.
TIPS:
- Seed Cleaning: Ensure the pumpkin seeds are well-cleaned and thoroughly dried before roasting. Any residual pumpkin flesh can affect the roasting process and result in unevenly cooked seeds.
- Spice Customization: Adjust the spice levels to your preference. If you enjoy a fiery kick, increase the amount of red chili powder. Conversely, if you prefer a milder flavor, reduce it. Personalize the spice blend to match your taste.
- Stirring: While roasting, remember to flip the seeds occasionally. This ensures even cooking and prevents them from sticking together or burning.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (PER SERVING):
- Calories: 276
- Fat: 26.1g
- Carbohydrates: 6.4g
- Fiber: 1.5g
- Sugar: 0.4g
- Protein: 8.6g
These Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds are not just a delightful snack but also a nutritional powerhouse. Pumpkin seeds are rich in protein, healthy fats, fiber, and an array of vitamins and minerals. When combined with the aromatic spices and a hint of lemon juice, they become an irresistible treat that’s both crunchy and savory. With just a little effort and a short time in the oven, you can create a flavorful and wholesome snack that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying solo.
So, gather your ingredients, spice things up, and get ready to savor the deliciousness of homemade Spicy Roasted Pumpkin Seeds. They’re bound to become your new favorite go-to snack for all occasions!
