Pumpkin carving has long been a tradition for those celebrating the spookiest holiday of the year, but not many are aware of just how it started.
Did you know, it’s not a vegetable, but a fruit that originated in North America approximately 9,000 years ago, with the oldest pumpkin seeds being found in Mexico. It’s historically been an important food staple for Native Americans, along with other forms of squash.
Although making a jack-o’-lantern is usually seen as an American tradition, the practice was brought to the states by Irish immigrants. It’s rooted in the 18th-century legend of Stingy Jack, a blacksmith whose trickery prevented the devil from claiming his soul, but also caused him to forever roam the earth as an undead spirit. The only thing Jack had to light his way was burning coal inside a carved-out turnip.
The Irish originally used turnips and potatoes as jack-o’-lanterns to ward off evil spirits, but they switched to pumpkins when they immigrated to the United States, as it was much easier to carve.
Pumpkins aren’t just for carving, though, as they’re highly nutritious. They contain many vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A, and are relatively low in calories. The benefits of eating pumpkins include lowering blood sugar levels, reducing high blood pressure, boosting immunity and promoting healthy skin.
However, do note that pumpkins you decide to use as jack-o’-lanterns should not be consumed. Once a pumpkin has been carved and has been sitting at room temperature for two hours, the inside is open and inviting to bacteria and could lead to a foodborne illness, especially if the jack-o’-lantern is left outside to the elements.
So, if you’re in the mood to carve out a pumpkin and make a pie or a hearty stew, pick up a few for this cozy season.