Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds: A Quick, Easy, And Delicious Treat

Air fryer pumpkin seeds are a delicious, crunchy, and healthy snack. They are easy to make and can be seasoned in a variety of ways. The air fryer method is quicker and easier than roasting them in an oven, and it gives the seeds a perfect crispy texture. This guide will take you through the whole process, from cleaning and drying the seeds to seasoning and cooking them in the air fryer.

Cleaning and drying the seeds

Firstly, separate the seeds from the pumpkin's pulp. This can be done by removing the pulp with your fingers or a large spoon. Try to remove as much pulp as possible, as any remaining pieces can affect the flavour and moisture of the seeds.

Next, place the seeds in a colander or fine mesh sieve and rinse them under running water. This will help to remove any remaining bits of pulp. You can also boil the seeds for 10 minutes in salted water, which will make the cleaning process more thorough.

After rinsing, lay the seeds out on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Gently press or pat them dry to remove most of the water. Leave them to air-dry thoroughly for at least 15 minutes, or even a few hours if you have the time. The dryer the seeds are, the crispier they will become when cooked in the air fryer.

If the seeds still feel damp after pressing or patting, you can repeat the process with another set of towels. You can also place them in a bowl and cover them with paper towels, pressing gently to absorb the moisture. Leave them to sit until they are completely dry.

Once the seeds are clean and dry, they are ready to be seasoned and cooked in the air fryer.

Choosing a seasoning

If you want to add a little extra kick to your seeds, you could try using Trader Joe's Chili Lime seasoning, or smoked paprika. For a sweet treat, you could sprinkle on some cinnamon and sugar, or even stir through some ground cinnamon and coconut sugar.

If you're feeling gourmet, toss the seeds with garlic powder and Parmesan cheese. Just remember to add the cheese as soon as the seeds come out of the fryer so it melts on their hot surface.

For a healthy alternative to roasted nuts, you could try a combination of garlic powder, cumin, ground coriander, chilli powder and smoked paprika. Or, for a southwestern twist, use a popcorn seasoning mix of cumin, chilli powder, paprika, garlic powder, oregano and salt.

You could even try a masala mix, combining garam masala with cumin, ground coriander, turmeric and salt. Or, for an extra kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper.

The options are endless, so get creative and enjoy your crunchy, healthy snack!

Adding oil and seasoning to the seeds

Choosing the Oil:

Start by selecting your preferred oil. You can use a variety of oils such as avocado oil, olive oil, vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted ghee/butter. Choose an option that suits your taste preferences and what you have available.

Drying the Seeds:

Before adding any oil or seasoning, it's important to ensure that your pumpkin seeds are thoroughly dried. Use paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to gently press and remove most of the water from the seeds. Let them air dry completely before proceeding to the next step. This step is crucial, as any remaining moisture can affect the crispiness of the seeds.

Mixing Oil and Seasoning:

Once your seeds are dry, transfer them to a medium-sized bowl. Add your chosen oil, starting with a small amount, and mix it well with the seeds. You can use a spoon or your hands to ensure all the seeds are evenly coated. Then, it's time to add your favourite seasonings. You can go the traditional route with just salt, or experiment with spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, ground coriander, chili powder, or even cinnamon sugar for a sweet twist. Mix everything together until the seeds are well coated with the oil and seasoning.

Customizing Your Seasoning:

Feel free to get creative and customize your seasoning blend. You can try a savory option like garlic salt, taco seasoning, Cajun seasoning, or ranch seasoning. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, go for a sweet and spicy approach with cinnamon and sugar. You can also sprinkle on some Parmesan cheese right after the seeds come out of the air fryer so it melts on their hot surface.

Adjusting Oil and Seasoning:

Remember, you can always add more oil and seasoning if needed. If you feel like your seeds need a little extra flavour, simply add a drizzle more of oil and sprinkle on some additional seasonings. It's better to start with a smaller amount and adjust as needed rather than adding too much at once.

Final Thoughts:

Adding oil and seasoning to your air fryer pumpkin seeds is a great way to elevate this snack. Don't be afraid to experiment with different oils and seasonings to find your perfect combination. Enjoy the process of creating delicious, crispy pumpkin seeds!

Air frying the seeds

Air-frying the seeds is a quick and easy way to make a crunchy, delicious, and healthy snack. The first step is to clean the seeds and pat them dry with a paper towel. You can also let them air-dry for 10 to 15 minutes, or even a few hours if you have the time. The dryer the seeds, the crispier they will become.

Once the seeds are dry, it's time to season them. You can use salt on its own, or get creative with different spices. Sweet or savoury combinations work well. Try cinnamon sugar, taco seasoning, Cajun seasoning, ranch seasoning, or a simple mix of garlic salt and smoked paprika. You can also experiment with garlic powder, cumin, ground coriander, chilli powder, or Parmesan cheese.

When you're happy with your seasoning, it's time to cook the seeds. Preheat your air fryer to between 350 and 360 degrees F. Place the seeds in the air fryer basket, taking care to create a single layer so that the hot air can properly circulate. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket every 5 minutes or halfway through. Keep a close eye on the seeds as they can go from done to burnt very quickly.

When the seeds are golden and crispy, they're ready to eat. Let them cool before serving or storing. You can store roasted pumpkin seeds in an airtight container on the counter for up to two weeks, or in the fridge for up to a month.

Storing the seeds

Storing your air fryer pumpkin seeds is a straightforward process. Once the seeds have cooled, place them in an airtight container. You can then store them at room temperature for up to two weeks, or in the refrigerator for up to a month. If you want to keep them for even longer, you can freeze them for up to three months.

If you want to store raw seeds, you can let them air-dry for a few hours and then place them in a Ziploc bag or airtight container. They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or on the counter for about a week.

It is important to note that roasted pumpkin seeds should not be stored in the freezer. They are best kept at room temperature or in the refrigerator. If you want to extend their shelf life, freezing is not recommended.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that the seeds should be completely dry before roasting and storing. This will ensure they become crispy and remain fresh for longer.

Frequently asked questions