When you cut open your pumpkin to remove the flesh do you throw out the seeds?  If I’m stuck for time I crush them and give them to the hens (see below), but if I have half an hour to spare I roast the seeds.  it’s simple – I leave the outer shell on and just let it crisp up in the oven.  They are quite edible and when cracked reveal the most deliciously green pumpkin seed.  

Pumpkins seeds – good for you and good for your chickens!

GET ROASTING..

• Preheat the oven to 150 degrees celsius. 
• Remove the seeds from the inside of the pumpkin and wash well to remove any pulp.  Rinse well.
• Simmer the seeds in lightly salted water for about ten minutes.  Drain and spread thinly on a baking sheet.
• Drizzle lightly with sesame oil and a sprinkling of sea salt.
• Roast for 15-20 minutes turning every five minutes or so. Every time I turn the seeds I take one out to taste.  When the seed is crispy on the outside and the inside is soft and delicious, your snack is ready.  
• Serve warm from the oven or cold (if you can wait!)  if you find the outside shell too tough, discard it and indulge in the inside instead.
• Store in an airtight container.

If you are a poultry-keeper, did you know that pumpkin seeds are a natural dewormer for your flock?  Crush the seeds up and scatter them for your chickens and they’ll devour them.

 Happy Halloween!!