Pickled Pumpkin with Cinnamon: A Cosy Twist on a Fall Favourite

Fall is the season of pumpkin everything! While pumpkin pies, lattes, and breads often steal the spotlight, pickled pumpkin is an underrated treat that deserves attention. With its subtle tang, hint of spice, and vibrant orange colour, pickled pumpkin adds a unique burst of flavour to cheese boards, salads, sandwiches, and even dessert spreads. Adding cinnamon brings out pumpkin’s natural warmth, creating a comforting and unexpected twist.

Why Pickle Pumpkin?

Pickling preserves pumpkin’s beautiful orange colour, slightly firm texture, and mild flavour, giving it a gentle tang that balances the pumpkin’s natural sweetness. Unlike traditional pumpkin preparations, pickling provides a savoury option that’s perfect for those who want something lighter and less sweet than pies or lattes. The combination of vinegar, sugar, and spices elevates pumpkin’s flavour profile and makes it versatile enough for both sweet and savoury pairings.

Pickled pumpkin also pairs well with seasonal dishes and can be an exciting addition to fall gatherings. Think about adding it to your next charcuterie board, or as a unique topping on sandwiches, salads, and even burgers.

Why Add Cinnamon?

Cinnamon is the quintessential fall spice, adding warmth and depth to almost any dish. When paired with pumpkin in a pickling brine, cinnamon adds a subtle spice that complements pumpkin’s natural sweetness without overpowering it. The spice offers a familiar, cosy note and brings a hint of holiday magic to every bite.

Adding cinnamon to pickled pumpkin also makes it easier to incorporate the pumpkin into a variety of dishes. With this unique combination of flavours, pickled pumpkin with cinnamon can shine as a condiment, side dish, or topping.

Practical Tips & Recipe Notes!

• Size matters: Choose a small to medium-sized pumpkin, like a sugar pumpkin or pie pumpkin, which is sweeter and firmer than larger varieties.
• Scooped out seeds: You can save the scooped out seeds for roasting if you like!
• Soft texture :If you prefer your pumpkin pieces to be softer, proceed to the next step.
• Crunchy texture: If you like a crunchier texture, let the pumpkin bites soak in water and vinegar for 2 hours up to overnight (in the fridge).

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📖 Recipe

Ingredients

• 500g diced pumpkin
• 500ml water
• 150ml vinegar
• 100g granulated sugar
• 6 cloves
• 4 cardamom pods
• 1 cinnamon stick

Instructions

1. Begin by cutting the pumpkin in half and removing the seeds and pulp.
2. Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to peel the pumpkin.
3. Cut the flesh into small, bite-sized cubes or thin slices to ensure even pickling.
4. In a large saucepan, combine vinegar, water, and diced pumpkin.
5. Add sugar, cloves, cardamom, and a cinnamon stick, then bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Let it simmer for 20–30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
7. Put the pumpkin into sterilized jars and pour the liquid over them.
8. Place one clove in each jar for a stronger flavour.
9. Seal the jars immediately with lids.

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Serving Ideas

• On a Cheese Board: Pickled pumpkin pairs beautifully with Brie, goat cheese, and aged cheddar.
• In Salads: Add a pop of colour and tang to fall salads with greens, nuts, and dried cranberries.
• As a Side: Serve alongside roasted meats, pork, or poultry for a refreshing contrast.
• On Sandwiches or Wraps: Layer pickled pumpkin with turkey, ham, or roasted vegetables for a unique twist.

A Fun Fall Project

Pickling pumpkin with cinnamon is a great kitchen project to get into the spirit of fall. This recipe can also be a great way to reduce waste if you have extra pumpkin. It’s fun to experiment with other flavours as well – try adding a dash of cayenne for heat or a touch of vanilla for more sweetness. The combination of pumpkin’s mild sweetness and cinnamon’s warmth makes it a unique condiment that’s both familiar and refreshingly new. Whether you’re hosting friends or looking to add something special to your meals, this pickled pumpkin is sure to be a conversation starter. So why not try it and bring a cosy, flavourful twist to your autumn table?

Happy pickling! 🫙