Is pumpkin peeled or not peeled

Pumpkin skin can be eaten, but it is recommended to decide whether to peel it based on the pumpkin variety and cooking method. Pumpkin skin is rich in dietary fiber and vitamins, but some varieties may have hard skin or pesticide residues. Pumpkin peel is rich in dietary fiber, which helps promote gastrointestinal motility and maintain intestinal health. The skin of old pumpkins is usually thick and hard in texture, and direct consumption may affect the taste. It is recommended to peel and cook. The skin of tender pumpkin is thin and soft, and after cleaning, it can be eaten with the skin attached, which can better preserve its nutritional components. Some pumpkin skins may contain pesticide or wax residues, which need to be thoroughly cleaned with flowing water and a soft bristled brush. When using cooking methods such as steaming or stewing soup, pumpkin with skin is easier to maintain its shape and nutrition. Some special varieties, such as chestnut and pumpkin, have thin skin and a powdery texture, making them suitable for cooking with skin on. The skin of Japanese pumpkin is delicate and can present a burnt flavor after baking. But pumpkins with damaged or moldy skin must have their spoiled parts removed. People with weak digestive function are recommended to remove pumpkin skin to reduce gastrointestinal burden. Commercial grown pumpkins may pose a risk of exceeding pesticide standards, and peeling them is safer. Organic grown pumpkins, after thorough cleaning, can be consumed with their skin to obtain more phytochemicals. When choosing whether to peel, it is necessary to comprehensively consider factors such as variety characteristics, food safety, and digestion and absorption. It is recommended to prioritize using organically grown tender pumpkins, soak them in salt water, and thoroughly clean the skin. Before cooking, you can lightly scratch the surface of the pumpkin with your nails, and the tender skin that can be easily cut can be preserved. Cutting pumpkins into pieces, steaming them first, and then peeling them can reduce nutrient loss. People with gastrointestinal sensitivity can steam pumpkin skin and filter the meat to make pumpkin puree or soup. When storing pumpkin with skin in daily life, it is necessary to keep the skin dry and intact to extend the shelf life.