The only place to buy large pumpkins is from Stults Farm in Plainsboro,” says Tom Cook, who only likes carving pumpkins that weigh between 100 and 140 pounds. “They grow a specific type and I faithfully buy them there.” Cook, a graduate of Culinary Institute of America, will be carving pumpkins at Terhune Orchards on Sunday, October 21.
“I’m an over 40 kid who loves Halloween,” says Cook, a longtime resident of Ewing. “I started carving large pumpkins about 15 years ago and found it to be a labor of love — or a twisted obsession.”
Cook, a restaurant manager for On the Border at Neshaminy Mall, says he “prefers the larger pumpkins to carve. They are much softer and easier than their smaller more popular cousins.” According to Cook, the smaller ones are much more difficult to carve because the flesh is much denser. He tosses out about five gallons of pulp when carving the large pumpkins. Some is composted and some is for farm animals. “It is not right for pumpkin pie or other pumpkin recipes,” he says.
Fall Family Fun, Terhune Orchards, 330 Cold Soil Road, Lawrenceville. Sunday, October 21, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wagon rides, corn stalk maze, adventure barn, and music. Rain or shine. Food available. Wine tasting. “Picture Perfect at Terhune Orchards,” a photography exhibit, on view. The Bon Ton Lizard Sauce with music from noon to 4 p.m. $5 admission. 609-924-2310. www.terhuneorchards.com.
