Pumpkin seed oil is an oil is extracted from the seeds of pumpkin, which are known as pepitas. The oil is viscous and is light to dark red to dark green in color and if observed carefully looks green, in thin layer and red in thick layer. This phenomenon is termed as dichromatism and this oil is one of the substances with maximum dichromatism. Pumpkin seed oil has a pleasant taste and aroma and is commonly used in South eastern Austria, eastern Slovenia and Medimurje, which is situated in north western Croatia.
History- Pumpkin Seed’s Oil
The oil is popular in southern parts of Styria since the 18th century. The first mention of the oil as per the records, dates back to February 18, 1697 at the farmer’s estate in Gleinstatten, Styria. The oil in Styria is made using the local produce of pumpkin which is called Styrian oil pumpkin.
In the present times, the pumpkin seed oil is one of the major commodities that are exported from Styria’s Austrian and Slovenian parts. The oil here is extracted by pressing the roasted pepitas.
Method Of Production: Pepita Oil
To make the pumpkin oil, the seeds are harvested and then dried and cleaned. Once clean, pepitas are pounded and finely milled. When the flour is ready, salt and water is added as water holds the taste of the seeds. The flour is roasted and then pressed to get the oil. Once done, the oil is bottled and sold.
Culinary Use Of Pumpkin Seed’s Oil
Pumpkin Seed Oil Benefits