Contrary to popular belief, pumpkin-flavored everything isn't just a national sensation in the US. Around the world, many countries have their own twists and take on the squash, especially when it's in season. While the pumpkin spice latte reigns supreme in the US and is usually in the form of sweet treats, pumpkin is actually used in savory recipes in other parts of the world. It's hard to believe, but pumpkin can actually be just as good when it errs on the side of savory rather than sweet - so it's time to set aside the PSL and explore the (pumpkin) road less traveled.

Pumpkin Fritters From South Africa

Anything is good in fritter form and aside from the fritter being major comfort food, it's also highly versatile and incredibly easy to whip up. Pumpkin fritters also have the added benefit of being breakfast, lunch, or even a dinner meal. In South Africa, however, these fritters are traditionally fried up as a subtly sweet treat that's topped with a cinnamon-sugar blend. In Afrikaans, the name for them is 'pampoenkoekies,' and they're also popular comfort food.

According to 196 flavors, these fritters are also called donuts and can be served with a thin caramel sauce. However, they can also be served on the more savory side and topped with salt after being fried, making them perfect for any time of day. The best part? They're just as good reheated, so be sure to make them in bulk!

Pumpkin Coconut Curry From Thailand

Coconut curry is another perfect comfort food since it combines warmth from a subtle level of spice with the creamy texture of coconut milk, and a burst of freshness and tang from citrus. To make all of that even better, the addition of pureéd sugar pumpkin makes this curry thick, creamy, rich, and utterly delightful. There are many recipes out there that can be altered according to individual taste, depending on the spice level and the veggies used.

This is also a great vegan option for pumpkin and fall-themed dishes as well since tofu can easily be added in place of chicken or seafood.

Cream Of Pumpkin Soup From Dominican Republic

Pumpkin soup is delicious all year round but there's something particularly magical about making it as soon as fall arrives. While pumpkin soup seems like it would be too sweet to actually be eaten as a soup, this savory twist on the squash exemplifies all the autumn flavors one would expect from a gourd. The texture of the soup is creamy, almost like velvet in its consistency, making it wholesome and satisfying. The scent is second to none, as roasted pumpkin wafting through the house is a totally different experience than pumpkin pie or pumpkin bread.

In the Dominican Republic, this soup is called Crema de Auyama which translates to 'pumpkin cream soup.' If pumpkin isn't in season, other similar squashes can be used to substitute, all with similar results. The soup is quite filling and can be served for lunch or dinner, but it's always topped with a swirl of sour cream to balance out the pumpkin flavor.

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Pumpkin Empanadas From Mexico

Empanadas are great no matter what the filling but pumpkin empanadas truly encompass all the flavors and comfort of the autumn season, wrapped up in a neat pastry package. This is a sweeter dish that's usually served in place of pumpkin pie, for both the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.

While recipes for empanada dough can vary (we won't tell anyone if you plan to use pre-made dough), the filling for pumpkin empanadas is pretty universal. With sweet notes from brown sugar and a bit of citrus tang from orange zest, this sweet dessert pastry is both vibrant and delicious. Cinnamon and cloves give it that classic holiday scent while also boosting the spice level just a tiny bit, adding a nice warmth to each comforting bite.

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Pumpkin Cheesecake From France

Pumpkin cheesecake is a great alternative to pumpkin pie, especially when a deviation from the norm is something so many strive for among hoards of pumpkin spice latte orders. In France, pastry work is an art and desserts are nothing short of beautiful.

The difference between a classic cheesecake and one with a bit of French influence is the texture - the consistency of a French cheesecake will have a filling that's far more mousse-like rather than dense. The addition of pumpkin only elevates the dessert, making it the perfect way to celebrate the holidays (and impress guests!) instead of pumpkin pie for once.

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