Fresh Pumpkin Stew – A Local Specialty from Alanya

Ingredients (Serves 8)

• 1 kg fresh pumpkin

• 3 medium onions

• 4 medium tomatoes

• 3 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon red pepper powder

• 1 tea glass vegetable oil

• 4 sprigs fresh mint

• 4 cloves garlic

• Salt

Preparation

Sautéing:
Finely chop the onions and sauté them in oil. Add the grated tomatoes and continue cooking.

Preparing the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste and red pepper powder, and continue sautéing.

Adding the Pumpkin:
Dice the pumpkin into cubes, add it to the pot, and sauté for about 5–10 minutes.

Cooking:
Add enough water to slightly cover the pumpkin and cook until tender.

Flavor Touch:
If desired, add crushed garlic about five minutes before turning off the heat.

Before Serving:
After cooking is complete, sprinkle finely chopped fresh mint over the dish and serve warm.