Ever since Starbucks’s iconic pumpkin spice latte (PSL) hit menus (or perhaps even for the reason that first pumpkin pie was baked?), pumpkin has virtually been the official taste of fall. So it wasn’t actually a shock that after September 1 rolled round, my social feeds began to tackle a markedly pumpkin-heavy tinge. Living proof: this TikTok that basically captured the spooky season vibes.
A number of weeks in the past, Steph Grasso, MS, RD, shared a pancake recipe that places a enjoyable fall spin on the usual dish—and packs an excellent dietary punch too. Not solely are her pumpkin pancakes seasonally applicable, however additionally they include 30 grams of protein, making them a robust breakfast choice. As gastroenterologist Lisa Ganjhu, DO, beforehand instructed SELF, protein helps increase satiety, holding you full (and from “always occupied with lunch.”) Plus it has a number of different advantages, from serving to your muscle mass recuperate after a tricky exercise to supporting the expansion and restore of different physique cells. In reality, many consultants suggest consuming 20 to 30 grams of protein at breakfast alone. And the pumpkin itself brings so much to the desk: It’s full of fiber (which may also help you poop higher and extra simply), vitamin C (which retains your pores and skin wholesome), and calcium (important for bone energy).
With the leaves altering colour and the temperature dropping, I really feel more and more in want of a comfortable morning pick-me-up, so the pancakes sounded too appetizing to cross on. Scanning the elements listed within the caption of Grasso’s TikTok—1/3 cup pumpkin, two eggs, 1 cup oats, 1/3 cup cottage cheese, 1-2 tablespoons maple syrup, and 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice—I noticed that the execution wouldn’t be robust, however I used to be just a little involved concerning the last product. Pumpkin pie apart, I couldn’t consider any dishes I’ve ever made that known as for pumpkin, and I’ve by no means been that keen on cottage cheese (its chunky-yet-sludgy look and barely bitter scent has at all times been a turnoff.)
However by no means let it’s mentioned that I’m not prepared to be transformed. Again in my kitchen, I measured out the elements and added them to my meals processor. Hitting “Begin,” I watched because the spinning blades puréed all the pieces collectively to kind a pale orange combination flecked with particular person oats and clumps of crushed pumpkin. Mentally, I in contrast it to the boxed pancake combine I knew and beloved. Judging by visuals alone, the consistency appeared to take a look at, so I felt cautiously optimistic.