Pumpkin, squash, gourd… These terms are often used interchangeably, when in fact they refer to completely different varieties. They all belong to the large gourd family (Cucurbitaceae), but each has its own unique characteristics, whether in shape, color, texture, or flavor. To avoid confusion at the market or in the kitchen, here’s a complete guide to help you easily tell them apart.
This is THE moment (1/12)
Autumn is slowly gaining momentum, and with it, the true stars of the season emerge: pumpkins in all their forms. Pumpkins, gourds, and other varieties are flooding market stalls, shop windows, and even our homes, serving as decorative elements. Their popularity is no accident: they perfectly capture the warm and colorful character of this season.
Autumn vegetables (2/12)
Pumpkins are harvested from late summer to autumn. This is when they reach peak ripeness, offering aromatic flesh and excellent storage properties. Rich in vitamins, fiber, and beta-carotene, they are as nutritionally valuable as they are delicious. Enjoying seasonal pumpkins means using fresh, local, and flavorful produce.
Symbol of celebration (3/12)
It’s impossible to talk about autumn without mentioning Halloween and Thanksgiving. Pumpkins, in particular, have become an indispensable symbol of these holidays. Carved into a spooky jack-o’-lantern for Halloween or transformed into a delicious, sweet pie for Thanksgiving, they occupy a central place in holiday traditions, especially in English-speaking countries.
Colors that match the theme (4/12)
From vibrant orange to deep green, including golden yellow and blue-gray, pumpkins offer a color palette reminiscent of falling leaves and autumnal landscapes. That’s why they often adorn tables, windowsills, and front steps. They instantly add warmth and authenticity.
Pumpkins (5/12)
The term “pumpkin” refers to all vegetables belonging to the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae). These include pumpkins and squashes, as well as zucchini, butternut squash, and spaghetti squash. A distinction is made between summer squash, harvested before maturity (like zucchini), and winter squash, harvested when fully ripe and suitable for storage for several months.
A Little Explanation (6/12)
All pumpkins and squashes are therefore gourds, but not all pumpkins are gourds. This distinction is important. Each variety has a different texture, density, and flavor, which significantly influences its use in the kitchen.
Pumpkin (7/12)
Pumpkins are easily recognized by their perfectly round shape and bright orange color. Their skin is typically smooth, and their stems are tough and fibrous. While they are prized as decorations, especially at Halloween, they are less popular in the kitchen due to their more watery and fibrous flesh.
In the kitchen (8/12)
Pumpkin flesh, which is not overly sweet and slightly fibrous, is ideal for soups, creams, and purees. It can also be used in gratins or stews, but sometimes requires stronger seasoning to bring out the full flavor.