Pumpkin and Shrimp – Guyanese Style

Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin

Cut the pumpkin into smaller, manageable pieces. Peel off the skin using a knife. Once peeled, cut the pumpkin into small, thin strips (julienne style).

Step 2: Prepare Aromatics

Slice the onion thinly. Finely chop the scallions. Pound the garlic cloves and red peppers together in a mortar and pestle until a coarse paste is formed.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a pan over medium-high heat. Add the cleaned, small shrimp (white belly shrimp) to the dry pan. Cook for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the water has evaporated and the shrimp are lightly fried and turn opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

Add about 2-3 tablespoons of cooking oil to the same pan and heat over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and chopped scallions to the hot oil. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Pepper Paste

Add the pounded garlic and pepper paste to the pan. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.

Step 6: Combine with Shrimp and Season

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan with the sautéed aromatics. Add black pepper (to taste) and salt (to taste). Stir everything together to combine the flavors.

Step 7: Cook the Pumpkin

Add the cut pumpkin strips to the pan. Add another pinch of salt (to taste) over the pumpkin. Stir thoroughly to ensure the pumpkin is well coated with the seasonings and shrimp. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook on medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the pumpkin softens.

Step 8: Mash and Finish

Uncover the pan and stir the pumpkin. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to mash the softened pumpkin to your desired consistency. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for another 5-7 minutes until the pumpkin is fully cooked, mashed, and the flavors are well blended.

• Choose a deep yellow pumpkin for a sweeter and richer flavor.

• Adjust the amount of pepper to your spice preference.

• Serve hot with roti or rice.

• For a vegetarian option, omit the shrimp and add more vegetables like spinach or callaloo.

• Add a pinch of curry powder for an additional layer of flavor.