Mexican Pumpkin in Brown Sugar
Indulge in the comforting flavors of autumn with **Mexican Pumpkin in Brown Sugar**, a traditional dessert that’s both simple and irresistibly delicious. This recipe transforms tender pumpkin wedges into a caramelized delight by simmering them in a spiced syrup made with **piloncillo (or dark brown sugar)**, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a hint of orange peel for a citrusy twist. With just 15 minutes of prep time, this slow-cooked treat fills your home with a warm, aromatic essence as it cooks to perfection. The skin-on pumpkin pieces soak up the deeply flavored syrup, creating a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with a drizzle of syrup, cream, or a dusting of cinnamon. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a cozy family dessert, this dish is a standout addition to any festive menu. Serve it warm or at room temperature and savor the essence of **authentic Mexican cuisine** in every bite.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 medium (about 3-4 pounds) Pumpkin
- 12 ounces Piloncillo (or dark brown sugar)
- 4 cups Water
- 2 Cinnamon sticks
- 4 Cloves
- 1 strip Orange peel
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
Instructions
Cut the pumpkin into large wedges or chunks, leaving the skin intact. Remove the seeds and fibrous strands from the center. Rinse and set aside.
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the piloncillo (or brown sugar), water, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange peel.
Place the pot over medium heat and stir gently until the piloncillo or brown sugar completely dissolves, forming a syrup.
Once the syrup begins to simmer, carefully add the pumpkin pieces to the pot. Arrange them with the skin side facing down to prevent sticking.
Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and cook for about 60-90 minutes, or until the pumpkin becomes tender and the syrup thickens slightly. Occasionally spoon the syrup over the pumpkin pieces to ensure even flavoring.
Add the vanilla extract during the last 5 minutes of cooking and gently stir to combine.
Remove the pot from heat and let the pumpkin cool slightly before serving.
Serve warm or at room temperature, drizzled with the syrup. Optionally, accompany with milk, cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1754 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 2.7 g | 3% | |
| Saturated Fat | 1.1 g | 6% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 163 mg | 7% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 446.9 g | 163% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 13.5 g | 48% | |
| Total Sugars | 375.3 g | ||
| Protein | 17.0 g | 34% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 788 mg | 61% | |
| Iron | 18.5 mg | 103% | |
| Potassium | 5958 mg | 127% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
