Cook a Whole Pie Pumpkin - Instant Pot
You can make your own pumpkin puree using pie or sugar pumpkins which are in stores now. These pumpkins are different from the large field pumpkins, being smaller at about 3-4 lbs, and they are expressly for eating rather than decoration.
Cook a Whole Pie Pumpkin - Instant Pot
A 4lb pie pumpkin will usually fit in a 6qt instant pot and yield about 2/3 cup puree per pound. One little pumpkin should be enough for 2 pies.
Put a cooking rack in the pot, the type with handles will be helpful lifting the cooked pumpkin out when its done. Place the pumpkin on the rack. Cut off the stem if necessary. Add 1 cup water to the pot. Lock the lid and set the pressure cooker to high and the timer for 12 minutes. Use the natural release.
Remove the pumpkin from the pot, it should be soft and fork tender. Cut the pumpkin in half and scoop out the seeds which you can roast for snacks. Scoop out the meat, cutting off any bits of peel. Place the pumpkin meat in a food processor and puree to a uniform consistency. Add a spoonful of water if needed. Use immediately for pies, cookies, muffins, cake or quick breads. Can be frozen.
Enjoy!
