Is pumpkin flower edible and what are its culinary uses? | The Times of India (2024)

Floral decorations have been the centre of attraction for so long. With a unique burst of flavours, these edible flowers provide colours to a variety of dishes like soups, salads and even beverages; making them look delicious. They just don’t beautify the plate, but have health benefits too. There is a long list of edible flowers that you would not be knowing about, and pumpkin flower is one of them! It’s a flower about which many people don’t know and is incredible in taste.

With bright yellow colour, pumpkin flower is a part of winter squash plant that’s popular for its association with Halloween. Contrary to the claims, this flower is very much edible and is popular in southern India. Fresh pumpkin flowers are plucked to prepare thoran, which is best enjoyed with rice. Not just that, pumpkin flower is equally popular in Bengali cuisine and is used to prepare fritters or pakoda. Phooler Bora or Pumpkin Flower Pakoda is a traditional dish of Bengali cuisine, and is best enjoyed with green chutney.

With a rich source of vitamin B9, pumpkin flowers are known to be full of health benefits. From enhancing immunity and treating common cold to making strong bones and improving vision, pumpkin flowers are known to be super-healthy. Not just this, you will be surprised to know that these flowers can also improve the sperm quality of a man while assisting with infertility issues.

With a sweet and mild flavour just like the vegetable, pumpkin flowers are used in various delicacies as condiment and soup ingredient. They can be used to make delicious salads or as dressings in cold salads. However, there is a word of caution while choosing them for cooking purposes. Make sure to use the male pumpkin flower as the female flowers have a small pumpkin fruit growing at the base of it.