The Tradition
Every Halloween used to end with me knee deep in pumpkin pulp. Stringy bits stuck to the counter, seeds rolling across the floor, and little voices asking, “Are we done yet?” One year I decided there had to be an easier way.
That’s how Capsicum Carving began.
Now, instead of wrestling with pumpkins, everyone chooses a bright shiny capsicum in red, orange or yellow. We slice off the tops, scoop out the seeds, and carve little faces. It takes minutes, not hours.
Once the faces are done, we stuff them with a mix of potion ingredients like rice, beans, herbs or mince, then roast them until they glow and the kitchen smells like magic. When they come out of the oven, we turn off the lights, light a few candles, and eat dinner by the soft flicker of our glowing peppers.
Why It Works
It takes something children already love, carving and creating, and weaves it into a shared family meal. The colours, the laughter, and the glow of the candles turn an ordinary dinner into a memory. It’s hands-on, a little bit magical, and reminds everyone that the real fun of Halloween isn’t just in the costumes or the sweets, but in the moments spent together.
How To Do It
- Choose a colourful capsicum for each person.
- Cut off the tops and scoop out the seeds.
- Carve simple faces using a small knife or craft tool.
- Fill with your favourite “potion ingredients” – rice, beans, lentils, or mince.
- Roast until soft and slightly caramelised.
- Turn off the lights, light a few candles, and serve your glowing dinner.
Quick Start Tips
- Use different coloured capsicums for a bright, glowing table.
- Add cheese or herbs on top for extra “magic dust.”
- Give each pepper a name before roasting to make them come alive.
Variations
- Make it a family face-off — everyone carves a different expression and votes for the funniest or scariest.
- Choose a colour theme each year — all orange one year, red the next, or mix them for a rainbow glow.
- Turn it into a neighbourhood dinner — invite friends to bring their own glowing creation to share.
- Add a story twist — each person gives their pepper a power like courage, kindness, or laughter.
Parents’ Tip
End the night with a touch of meaning. After dinner, everyone casts a kindness spell, one small promise to do something kind or brave before next Halloween.