Microwave Delight: Sweet Pumpkin & Smoked Duck Steamed Dish
Effortlessly Easy Smoked Duck Stuffed Pumpkin Steamed in the Microwave
Today’s pumpkin is incredibly sweet and fluffy, perfect for this quick microwave recipe! While it’s delicious simply steamed, I decided to elevate it by stuffing it with smoked duck, colorful bell peppers, and crunchy nuts. This method is incredibly easy and yields a wonderfully savory and satisfying dish. I only wish I had added a bit more cheese for an even richer topping! It’s a healthy and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a light lunch or a delightful side dish.
Ingredients- 1 small pumpkin
- 100g smoked duck breast
- A small amount of bell pepper
- 50g shredded cheese
- Honey (optional)
- A small amount of nuts
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
To create a lid for the pumpkin, you’ll need to cut off the top. Since the pumpkin is quite firm, the knife might not go in easily. To make it softer, microwave the whole pumpkin for about 3 minutes. This initial heating step will make slicing much easier.
Step 2
After microwaving, the knife should now glide through the pumpkin easily. Carefully cut off the stem end to create a lid, then use a spoon to scoop out all the seeds and stringy bits from the center. Ensure the inside is clean and empty to make room for the filling.
Step 3
While I used smoked duck here, feel free to substitute with cooked pork or chicken if you prefer. Place your chosen meat in a frying pan and stir-fry it. Since smoked duck is already seasoned, a little freshly ground black pepper is all you need to enhance its flavor.
Step 4
To make the filling lighter and more delicate, place the stir-fried meat on a paper towel to absorb any excess oil. This simple step helps remove extra grease for a cleaner taste.
Step 5
Now, carefully spoon the oil-blotted, cooked meat into the hollowed-out pumpkin. Distribute it evenly inside the pumpkin cavity for a balanced filling.
Step 6
Finely chop a small amount of colorful bell pepper and sprinkle it over the smoked duck filling. The bell pepper adds a lovely crunch and freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Step 7
Generously top the filling with shredded cheese. Place the stuffed pumpkin into the microwave and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The cheese will beautifully bind the ingredients together.
Step 8
Once done, carefully remove the steamed pumpkin from the microwave. The cheese should be melted and golden, looking absolutely delicious and inviting.
Step 9
Cut the steamed pumpkin into 8 wedges for easy serving. Finally, sprinkle a handful of your favorite nuts over the top for added texture and nutty flavor. If you have a sweet tooth, a drizzle of honey just before serving will make it even more delightful!
