Mestemacher Kürbiskern: Lighter Than It Looks

Lighter than it looks, and at its best out of the toaster.

What it is

Kürbiskernbrot is a dense German wholemeal rye loaf with pumpkin seeds worked through it. It comes ready sliced in a 500g pack.

What it tastes like

Milder and lighter than I expected from a loaf this dark. The pack promises it also works toasted, and I would put it more strongly: toasted beats untoasted. That is the version I would serve.

The catch

Eaten plain, it is nothing special. I could not taste much of a difference from a normal wholemeal loaf. If you are expecting a revelation from the pumpkin seeds alone, you will not get one.

Who it's for

Pretty much everyone. It is a firm, chewy loaf, so if chewing is hard work for you, choose something softer.

How I eat it

Toasted, with garlic, tomato and a splash of balsamic vinegar. Think bruschetta on rye.

Would I recommend it?

Yes.

Tasted by Melanie, 29 August 2026.