Carving a pumpkin may seem like a fun, relaxing autumn activity that you can do together as a family, but if you’ve ever actually attempted to carve a pumpkin, you know that this isn’t always the case. Carving the perfect pumpkin is possible, however, and these simple tips can help you get there safely and without too much stress.

1. Start by choosing a pumpkin with a flat bottom so that it won’t roll around while you try to carve it.
2. Cut the top of the pumpkin on an angle, so that once you scoop it out and replace the stem it won’t drop down inside.
3. Soak the pumpkin in a bleach solution for one or two hours before carving to lengthen its lifespan. After you carve it, dry thoroughly and rub the edges with some petroleum jelly to prevent it from shriveling.
4. While it may seem like a waste of money, it’s very helpful to purchase a kit of knives designed especially for pumpkin carving. Using a common kitchen knife that is too big or not sharp enough can be dangerous for everyone involved.
5. If this is your first time carving a pumpkin, choose a pattern with bold features and large details to make it a bit easier.
6. Cut out your stencil and either trace it directly onto the pumpkin or tape it on with clear tape before carving.

8 Pro Tips for Carving the Perfect Pumpkin [Good Housekeeping]
Pumpkin Carving Tips – How to Carve a Jack-o'-lantern [About Food]
How to Carve a Pumpkin [Martha Stewart]

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr creepyhalloweenimages

Punjabi Tandoor brings a taste of India to Anaheim with a large selection of curries and dishes cooked in a tandoor, or clay oven. The restaurant’s tandoori delicacies include chicken legs marinated in yogurt and spices and minced lamb with herbs and spices. The menu features more than 10 breads, which can come stuffed with cauliflower, potatoes, or cheese. The restaurant cooks its naan bread in the tandoor too.

Along with its traditional dishes, Punjabi Tandoor also offers a variety of vegetarian dishes. And you can enjoy all of these dishes without breaking the bank. Besides the combo for two, everything on the menu is under $15. Many dishes are even under $10.

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner Mondays through Saturdays and for dinner on Sundays. You can choose to enjoy your meal inside or on the patio.

Punjabi Tandoor
327 South Anaheim Boulevard
Anaheim, CA 92805
(714) 635-3155
www.punjabitandoor.com
www.yelp.com/biz/punjabi-tandoor-anaheim

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/Danny Choo

Have a relaxing day with fun and laughter!