Trang Nong Seeds Co. Ltd is a Thai company known for its high-quality roasted pumpkin seeds, often sold salted or flavored. This recipe recreates that irresistible snack at home, using simple ingredients and a dry-roasting method that brings out the nutty, toasty flavor of the seeds. It works because roasting at a moderate temperature allows the seeds to crisp up evenly without burning, and the optional salt or spice coating clings perfectly to the slightly oily surface.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (140 g) raw pumpkin seeds (pepitas), hulled
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt (or to taste)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, garlic powder, or chili powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, toss the pumpkin seeds with the olive oil until they are evenly coated.
- Add the salt and any optional spices, then toss again to distribute.
- Spread the seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the seeds are golden and fragrant. They will crisp up further as they cool.
- Remove from the oven and let cool completely on the baking sheet. The seeds will become crunchy as they cool.
Tips
- Substitutions: Use raw sunflower seeds or a mix of seeds for a different flavor. If you prefer no oil, you can dry-roast the seeds in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently, but they won’t be as evenly coated with salt.
- Storage: Store roasted seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
- Common mistake: Do not roast at a higher temperature to speed up the process; the seeds can burn quickly and become bitter. Also, ensure they are completely dry before roasting to achieve maximum crispness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these roasted pumpkin seeds as a snack on their own, or use them to add crunch to salads, soups, or yogurt bowls. They also make a great topping for roasted vegetables or a flavorful addition to homemade granola.
Variations
- Sweet and Spicy: Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper along with the salt.
- Herb Roasted: Mix in 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary or thyme with the oil before roasting.
- Honey Roasted: Replace the oil with 1 tablespoon of honey and reduce the salt to 1/4 teaspoon. Watch closely as honey can burn.
Storage and Reheating
Store the roasted seeds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. If they lose their crunch, you can re-crisp them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, or in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5 minutes. Allow them to cool completely before storing again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pumpkin seeds straight from a fresh pumpkin? Yes, but you must clean and dry them thoroughly first. Rinse off the pulp, pat dry, and let them air-dry for several hours or overnight before roasting. This step is crucial for crispness.
Why are my roasted seeds chewy, not crunchy? Chewy seeds are often under-roasted or not dried well. Make sure you roast them for the full time and let them cool completely on the baking sheet—they crisp as they cool.
Can I roast seeds without oil? Yes, you can dry-roast them in a skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until they are golden. However, the salt and spices won’t stick as well, so you may want to add them after roasting while the seeds are still warm.
How long do roasted pumpkin seeds last? At room temperature in an airtight container, they stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. Refrigerating them can extend their shelf life to 3 months.
Are roasted pumpkin seeds healthy? Pumpkin seeds are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and minerals like magnesium and zinc. Roasting them at home lets you control the salt and oil, making them a wholesome snack.
Can I use flavored salts or spice blends? Absolutely. Try garlic salt, ranch seasoning, or a curry powder mix. Just be mindful of the salt content in pre-made blends.
Related
- Picture of Dhokla: Soft Spongy Khaman Recipe
- Rasgulla Recipe: Soft Bengali Syrup-Soaked Cheese Balls
- Pink Kaju Katli Recipe: Easy Indian Cashew Fudge
More recipes to cook
Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it (corrections policy).