Buffalo and Ranch Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 (8 ounce) bottle buffalo wing sauce
• 1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix
• 1 tablespoons lemon pepper (optional)
• Seasoned salt, to taste
• 4 cups pumpkin seeds

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325F (165C). Line a baking sheet with wax paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine buffalo wing sauce, ranch dressing mix, lemon pepper (if using), and seasoned salt. Stir well until fully mixed.

Step 3: Add the pumpkin seeds to the bowl with the sauce mixture. Toss them until they are evenly coated.

Step 4: Spread the coated pumpkin seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes to ensure even cooking. The seeds should turn golden brown and become crunchy.

Step 6: Once done, remove the pumpkin seeds from the oven and allow them to cool before serving.

Cook's Note

I highly recommend using Frank's Red Hot Buffalo Wing Sauce for the best flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	408
Total Fat	33g	42%
Saturated Fat	6g	30%
Sodium	1226mg	53%
Total Carbohydrate	18g	7%
Dietary Fiber	3g	10%
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	18g	36%
Vitamin C	1mg	1%
Calcium	32mg	2%
Iron	10mg	58%
Potassium	578mg	12%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amounts are based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Origin History:

The tradition of roasting pumpkin seeds dates back centuries to the indigenous peoples of North America, who would harvest pumpkin seeds and roast them for nourishment. While the practice has remained largely unchanged, modern variations of seasoning have taken it to new levels. One such variation, combining the bold flavors of buffalo wing sauce and ranch dressing, reflects America's love for spicy snacks. This fusion is a relatively new twist on the classic roasted seed recipe, reflecting the rising popularity of bold, flavor-packed snacks in recent years. The spicy, tangy buffalo sauce paired with the creamy, savory ranch seasoning makes this dish a contemporary favorite.

Regional Characteristics:

The combination of buffalo sauce and ranch seasoning is quintessentially American, especially popular in regions like the Midwest and South, where spicy and creamy flavor combinations are especially favored. Buffalo wings, a signature dish originating from Buffalo, New York, are often paired with ranch or blue cheese dressing, making it a natural choice for a modern snack like this one. The use of pumpkin seeds is particularly popular in the fall, when pumpkins are harvested and their seeds are abundant, tying the dish to seasonal flavors and traditions in North America.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes:

Buffalo and ranch pumpkin seeds stand apart from other roasted seed snacks due to the specific combination of the hot, vinegary buffalo sauce and the rich, creamy ranch seasoning. While other roasted seeds may focus on salt, sugar, or other simple seasonings, this recipe takes a bolder approach by incorporating two strong flavor profiles often associated with American bar food. This distinguishes it from more neutral or herbal-flavored roasted seed recipes that emphasize subtlety over intensity.

Where Is It Typically Served?

Buffalo and ranch pumpkin seeds are often served as a snack for casual gatherings or as a crunchy appetizer during football games, particularly in the fall when pumpkins are in season. They are a popular snack at tailgates, parties, or even as a unique alternative to chips and dip at family gatherings. Their addictive, spicy flavor makes them a hit among those who enjoy bold, savory snacks. These seeds are typically enjoyed with a cold drink, like beer or soda, making them a perfect pairing for laid-back social settings.

Interesting Facts:

• Pumpkin seeds, or "pepitas," are not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits, including protein, healthy fats, and a good amount of iron and magnesium.
• Frank's RedHot Buffalo Wing Sauce, a staple in the recipe, is often credited as the original hot sauce used in buffalo wings, which were first created in Buffalo, New York, in 1964.
• Although pumpkin seeds have been eaten for centuries, the specific combination of buffalo and ranch flavors is a modern creation, illustrating the ongoing evolution of American snack culture.
• These seeds are a fantastic way to utilize the often-wasted innards of pumpkins, making this dish a sustainable and creative way to enjoy seasonal produce.

Overall, Buffalo and Ranch Pumpkin Seeds are not only a flavorful snack but also a great way to celebrate seasonal flavors with a twist. The bold, spicy flavor profile makes them a standout choice for anyone looking to try something new and exciting.

FAQ about Buffalo and Ranch Pumpkin Seeds Recipe

Comments