Crispy Candied Pumpkin Snack Recipe
かぼちゃを香ばしく揚げて、甘辛いタレを絡めた大学かぼちゃ。かぼちゃの自然な甘みと、しょうゆの風味がよく合う一品です。β-カロテンやビタミンEなどを含むかぼちゃは、美容を意識した毎日の食事にも取り入れたい食材。おやつにはもちろん、お弁当のおかずにもおすすめです。
Ingredients (Serves 2)
Pumpkin – 1/8 of a whole pumpkin (approx. 150 g, seeds removed)
Oil for deep-frying – As needed
Toasted black sesame seeds – To taste
A – Sweet and Savory Glaze
Sugar – 1 tbsp
Soy sauce – 1/2 tbsp
Water – 2 tbsp
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pumpkin
Remove the seeds and stringy pulp from the pumpkin, then cut it into bite-sized pieces, leaving the skin on. Pat the pieces dry with a paper towel to prevent oil from splattering during frying.
2. Fry the Pumpkin
Heat the oil to 170°C (340°F) and fry the pumpkin until tender. Once a skewer slides easily through the flesh, remove the pieces from the oil and drain off any excess oil.
3. Prepare the Sweet and Savory Glaze
Combine all ingredients listed under A in a frying pan and heat over medium heat. Once the mixture begins to boil and thickens slightly, turn off the heat. Add the fried pumpkin and gently toss until evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Garnish with Sesame Seeds
Allow the pumpkin to cool slightly, then transfer it to a serving plate. Sprinkle with toasted black sesame seeds and serve.
Tips for the Best Results
For a crispier texture, try double-frying the pumpkin. After frying it at 170°C (340°F), remove it from the oil, then briefly fry it again at 180°C (355°F). This creates a deliciously crispy, golden exterior.
Be careful not to overcook the sweet and savory glaze, as it can become too thick and harden as it cools. Remove it from the heat as soon as it begins to thicken slightly.
Notes
1 tablespoon (tbsp) = 15 ml.
The pumpkin skin can be left on.
Cut the pumpkin into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
Why Pumpkin Is Good for Your Skin
Pumpkin contains essential nutrients such as beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E, making it a valuable addition to a diet that supports beauty and overall health.
Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body as needed, helping maintain healthy skin and mucous membranes. Vitamins C and E also act as antioxidants, helping protect cells from oxidative stress.
Pumpkin is also a source of dietary fiber, making it a good choice for those looking to support digestive health through their everyday diet.
Although this candied pumpkin recipe involves deep-frying and added sugar, it offers a delicious way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of pumpkin while satisfying your sweet tooth.
About Author
Ai shimizu
Health Writer / Registered Dietitian in Japan
Ai Shimizu is a registered dietitian and health writer who shares evidence-based information on nutrition, healthy eating, and food education. She also develops practical recipes and promotes family-friendly cooking that supports lifelong well-being.
