12 Seasonal Vegetables India Has This Season

10. Pumpkin (Kaddu)

Pumpkin has varieties that store well through winter and show up in markets as firm, heavy fruits with a sweet, dry flesh. It delivers vitamin A and fibre and works across sweet and savory recipes—try pumpkin curry, halwa, or simple roasted cubes tossed with spices. When selecting, lift the pumpkin; it should feel heavy for its size and have a hard, intact rind. A small, dent-free pumpkin will keep in a cool, dry place for several weeks, which makes it convenient for weekend cooking plans. Cut pieces should be wrapped and refrigerated promptly. In many households, pumpkin is used in satvik or light meals, and it pairs well with dals and rotis for an easy weekday dinner. Its mild sweetness also makes it a child-friendly vegetable and helps introduce seasonal flavors into lunchboxes without fuss.