The BC Blog...

As the calendar flips to October, there’s a noticeable shift in the air. The days grow shorter, the mornings crisper, and the evenings are infused with a certain mysterious chill. October marks the start of the spooky season, and while it’s often associated with Halloween, ghost stories, and all things eerie, it’s also a time to embrace the enchanting transformation of nature. Autumn is now in full swing, and there’s no better time to indulge in cosy traditions, from harvesting your home-grown pumpkins to enjoying the vibrant colours of the natural world.

Pumpkins, Lanterns, and Spiced Soup: The Joy of Harvesting

For those with a garden, October is the perfect month to reap the rewards of your pumpkin patch. Pumpkins are the quintessential symbol of autumn, and if you’ve nurtured your own, now’s the moment to harvest them at their peak. Whether you’ve grown large, plump pumpkins or smaller, decorative varieties, each one is a treasure waiting to be transformed.

Of course, when it comes to October, the most iconic use for a pumpkin is turning it into a Jack-o’-lantern. This timeless tradition dates back centuries and was originally used to ward off evil spirits during the Celtic festival of Samhain, the precursor to Halloween. There’s something both whimsical and spooky about carving a ghoulish face into a pumpkin, placing a candle inside, and watching it flicker in the cool autumn night.

But carving pumpkins is only half the fun. Once you’ve scooped out the innards, don’t be too quick to discard them. The pulp inside your pumpkin is brimming with potential, perfect for making a warming, spiced pumpkin soup. As the temperature dips, this soup becomes a comforting delight, combining the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the rich aromas of autumn spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.  Try out our recipe for a simple spiced pumpkin soup below...

Simple Spiced Pumpkin Soup Recipe

After carving your Jack-o’-lantern, gather the leftover pumpkin flesh and turn it into a delicious, warming soup. Here's a simple recipe to keep you cosy throughout the chilly autumn evenings:

Ingredients:

• 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 900g of flesh)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 750ml vegetable stock (or chicken stock if you like, we won't tell anyone, plus it will add some extra tasty flavour!)
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 120ml double cream (optional)
• Crusty bread to serve
• (...plus, if you're feeling a little mischievous you could always add ½ tsp of chilli flakes for an extra spicy kick whilst you're making this delicious soup)

Method:

1. Start by preparing your pumpkin. After scooping out the seeds and pulp from your Jack-o’-lantern, peel and chop the pumpkin flesh into small cubes.
2. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they turn soft and translucent.
3. Add the chopped pumpkin to the pot and stir well to combine. Allow the pumpkin to cook for 5-7 minutes, until it begins to soften.
4. Pour in the vegetable stock, ensuring the pumpkin is covered, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for around 20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
5. Add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to distribute the spices throughout the soup.
6. Using a hand blender, puree the soup until it becomes smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier soup, simply blend half the mixture and leave the rest with its texture.
7. Stir in the double cream for added richness, or leave it out if you prefer a lighter version.
8. Serve your spiced pumpkin soup hot, with crusty bread on the side. It’s the perfect way to warm up after a chilly day outdoors.

Not only is this soup delicious, but it’s also a fantastic way to use up your pumpkin harvest. Plus, if you’re hosting a Halloween gathering, it’s a fun and seasonal dish to serve to guests, ensuring they’re not just spooked but also well-fed!

The Magic of Autumn: A Walk Through Nature

October isn’t just about spooky festivities; it’s also a time to appreciate the breath-taking beauty that nature offers. The landscape undergoes a dramatic transformation, as green summer foliage turns to brilliant shades of gold, orange, and crimson. It’s the perfect time to get outside and experience the magic of autumn first hand.

A walk through the woods in October can feel almost otherworldly. The rustling of dried leaves underfoot, the cool, fresh air, and the soft light filtering through the trees all contribute to a sense of peaceful enchantment. It’s as if the world slows down just a little, giving us time to appreciate the small things – the smell of damp earth, the sight of squirrels gathering acorns, or the way a sudden gust of wind sends a flurry of leaves spiralling through the air.

Parks & nature reserves are particularly beautiful at this time of year. The mix of colours, the crispness of the atmosphere, and the low angle of the autumn sun make for stunning walks, whether you're exploring your local woodland or wandering through a city park. It’s not unusual to find that even a familiar route feels new again, transformed by the season’s palette.

There’s something especially magical about venturing out as the late afternoon light fades, when mist might begin to rise from the fields, and a quiet stillness settles over the landscape. These autumnal walks not only offer a feast for the senses but also provide a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. They invite reflection and mindfulness, allowing you to be present in the moment and enjoy the beauty of nature’s cycle.

Embracing October Traditions

October is a month that encourages both creativity and reflection. Whether you’re carving pumpkins, enjoying a bowl of spiced pumpkin soup, or taking a tranquil walk through rustling autumn leaves, it’s a time to savour the simple pleasures.

As Halloween approaches, the spooky season reminds us of the thrill of the unknown, the joy of stories that send shivers down our spine, and the fun of gathering with friends and family to celebrate in the glow of candlelight. Yet October also offers moments of calm and beauty, from the harvest in our gardens to the colourful transformation of the world around us.

So, as the days shorten and the nights grow longer, embrace the magic of October. Whether you’re revelling in its spooky side or simply appreciating the serenity of autumn, this month offers something special for everyone.

Wishing you all a spooky Halloween!