Pumpkin (kimkuah)

Pumpkin (16 August 2008)


Pumpkin is found occasionally in Penang Local Cooking. In Hokkien, it is called kimkuah, meaning golden gourd, on account of its bright orange flesh. The pumpkin comes from the genus Cucurbita. The skin of the local pumpkin is often greenish white with patches of orange. It is not the same as the American pumpkin which is bright orange throughout.

Health benefits

Its contains high levels of vitamins C and E and beta carotenes linked to lowering the risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke and cataracts. Studies have shown that those who remain cancer free appear to have a regular habit of consuming pumpkins. It is easily digested and rarely causes allergies.

How much to eat

To enjoy the protective goodness of pumpkin as mentioned, it is recommended to consume pumpkin at least every other day.

Cooking methods

In the Nyonya kitchen, pumpkin is usually cooked with dried prawns (heh bee). My wife makes delicious pumpkin rice.

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