There are many varieties of pumpkin, and each has its own distinctive characteristics in terms of shape, color, size and flavor. Here is a list of the most common pumpkin varieties and their differences:
1) Spaghetti squash
- it has an elongated and narrow shape, with a yellow skin and a fibrous pulp that appears in spaghetti-like strands after cooking. Its flavor is slightly sweet and can be used as a substitute for real spaghetti or as an ingredient in salads or side dishes.
2) Delica pumpkin
- has a rounded shape with a green-grey skin and intense orange pulp. Its consistency is creamy and its flavor is sweet and delicate. It is ideal for soups and baked dishes.
3) Butternut squash
- has an elongated and rounded shape, with a beige or light brown skin and an intense orange pulp. Its consistency is creamy and its flavor is sweet and slightly nutty. It is a versatile pumpkin and can be used in many recipes, such as soups, purees, dumplings and pies.
4) Moscata pumpkin
- has a rounded shape with a beige or light brown skin and deep orange flesh. Its flavor is sweet and spicy, similar to that of nutmeg. It is perfect for preparing desserts, cakes and pumpkin bread.
5) Hokkaido pumpkin
- has a rounded shape with bright orange skin and sweet, creamy flesh. It is ideal for preparing soups, purees and dumplings.
6) Hubbard Pumpkin
- has a rounded or oval shape with wrinkled and hard skin of blue or dark green color. Its pulp is sweet and dense, perfect for baking or for preparing soups and purees.