Are magaz and pumpkin seeds the same? Untangling the Confusion

December 22, 2025 •

3 min read

Char Magaz is a well-known blend in South Asian cuisine that includes four different types of seeds, one of which is pumpkin seeds. This fact alone suggests that magaz and pumpkin seeds are not the same, but the term 'magaz' can be confusingly used in different contexts. Understanding this distinction is key to knowing what you're buying or cooking with.

Quick Summary

Magaz is a term often referring specifically to melon seeds, whereas pumpkin seeds are distinct seeds sometimes referred to by other names, like pepitas. Confusion arises because pumpkin seeds are also a component of the multi-seed blend called char magaz. These seeds have unique origins, appearances, and nutritional profiles.

Key Points

Magaz is often melon seeds: The term 'magaz' frequently refers specifically to seeds from melons, such as muskmelon or cantaloupe.
Char magaz is a blend: The traditional 'char magaz' is a mix containing four different seeds, and pumpkin seeds are just one component of this blend.
Pumpkin seeds are distinct: Pumpkin seeds are the edible seeds of pumpkins, and are sometimes called 'Magaz Kadu' or 'pepitas'.
Nutritional profiles differ: While both are nutritious, the specific vitamin, mineral, and fatty acid content varies between melon seeds, pumpkin seeds, and the char magaz mix.
Culinary uses vary: Melon seeds are often used for thickening sauces, while pumpkin seeds are more popular for snacking, sprinkling on food, and baking.

What is 'Magaz' and 'Char Magaz'?

The term 'magaz' (مغز) is a Persian word that means 'kernels' or 'brain,' and is often used in the Indian subcontinent to refer to seeds from the melon family. Most commonly, when someone mentions 'magaz seeds' they are referring to muskmelon seeds or cantaloupe seeds. These are small, white, flat kernels that are distinct from pumpkin seeds.

Adding to the complexity is the traditional blend known as 'char magaz' (چارمغز), which literally translates to 'four kernels'. This mix includes a specific combination of four seeds, and it's here that pumpkin seeds enter the picture.

The Composition of Char Magaz

Pumpkin Seeds: Included for their nutritional value.
Watermelon Seeds: Valued for their healthy properties.
Muskmelon Seeds (Magaz): These are the most common component referred to as 'magaz'.
Cucumber Seeds: The final component that completes the blend.

This makes it clear that while 'magaz' can refer to a specific seed (melon seed), it is also part of a larger blend where pumpkin seeds are also a separate, distinct ingredient.

What are Pumpkin Seeds?

Pumpkin seeds are the edible seeds of the pumpkin fruit. In some regions, they are known by specific names like 'Magaz Kadu' or 'Kaddu Magaj,' which further clarifies their identity as pumpkin seeds (kaddu meaning pumpkin). Globally, they are more commonly known as 'pepitas,' especially the hulled, green variety that comes from hull-less pumpkins.

Types of Pumpkin Seeds

Hulled (Pepitas): Green-colored seeds without a white fibrous shell, often sold for snacking or cooking.
Unhulled: The whole, flat, white seeds that you scoop out of a pumpkin when carving a jack-o'-lantern. These must be shelled or roasted before eating.

Pumpkin seeds are a rich source of nutrients, including magnesium, zinc, protein, and healthy fats, and are enjoyed roasted or as a versatile ingredient in many dishes.

Comparison Table: Magaz vs. Pumpkin Seeds vs. Char Magaz


Feature	Magaz (Melon Seeds)	Pumpkin Seeds (Pepitas)	Char Magaz (The Blend)
Origin	Mainly muskmelon or cantaloupe	Pumpkins	Blend of 4 seeds (including pumpkin)
Appearance	Small, flat, white kernels	Flat, oval-shaped; green (pepitas) or white (hulled)	A mix of different seed shapes and colors
Common Use	Thickening curries, desserts, smoothies	Snacking, salads, baking, garnish	As a thickener, garnish, nutritional supplement
Key Nutrients	Protein, fatty acids, vitamins	Magnesium, zinc, iron, healthy fats, protein	Comprehensive blend of nutrients from all four seeds
Flavor Profile	Mild, nutty, and slightly sweet	Nutty, slightly sweet with a milder taste than melon seeds	Complex, nutty flavor combining all constituent seeds

Culinary Uses and Nutritional Differences

The distinct nature of these seeds leads to different applications in the kitchen. Magaz (melon seeds) are often used to create a thick, creamy paste for rich curries and gravies, or ground into powder for sweets and drinks. The mild, nutty flavor serves as an excellent thickening agent without overpowering other ingredients.

Pumpkin seeds, especially pepitas, are prized for their versatility. They can be toasted and salted for a simple snack, sprinkled on salads for a protein boost, or baked into breads and muffins. The robust flavor and distinct crunch make them a popular addition to a wide range of dishes.

Char magaz is a shortcut for the blend, used when a combination of the seeds' benefits and flavors is desired. It's used in sweets like 'ladoos,' in curries, and as a health supplement.

From a nutritional standpoint, while all are healthy, their specific profiles vary. For instance, pumpkin seeds are particularly known for their high magnesium content, while the collective benefits of char magaz offer a wider array of nutrients from its four components. Both melon seeds (magaz) and pumpkin seeds are excellent sources of protein and healthy fats, but in different ratios.

Conclusion

So, are magaz and pumpkin seeds the same? The answer is a clear no, although it's easy to get confused due to naming conventions in different regions and the popular multi-seed blend, char magaz. 'Magaz' most commonly refers to melon seeds, a distinct ingredient from pumpkin seeds. Pumpkin seeds are a separate entity, sometimes called 'Magaz Kadu' or 'pepitas.' Finally, 'char magaz' is a blend that conveniently includes both pumpkin seeds and melon seeds, among others. Understanding these differences empowers you to make the right choice for your recipes and dietary needs. For more details on the individual benefits of these seeds, you can explore resources like this article from InstaCare.

Frequently Asked Questions

'Magaz' typically refers to a single type of seed, usually muskmelon seed, while 'char magaz' is a specific blend of four seeds, which includes muskmelon seeds, watermelon seeds, cucumber seeds, and pumpkin seeds.

Yes and no. All pepitas are a type of pumpkin seed, but not all pumpkin seeds are pepitas. Pepitas are the hulled, shell-free seeds that come from specific 'hull-less' pumpkin varieties, whereas pumpkin seeds refer to all seeds from a pumpkin, including those with shells.

It depends on the recipe. For thickening a curry, finely ground melon seeds (magaz) provide a specific texture and mild flavor. Roasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) have a different texture and stronger flavor profile, which might alter the desired outcome.

Both are highly nutritious but offer different benefits. Pumpkin seeds are notably high in magnesium, zinc, and iron, while melon seeds (magaz) also provide healthy fats and protein. The best choice depends on the specific nutritional needs or culinary application.

Char magaz is a mix of four different seeds: pumpkin seeds, watermelon seeds, muskmelon seeds (often called magaz), and cucumber seeds.

Char magaz is a popular ingredient in many South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines, especially in India and Pakistan, where it is used in sweets, curries, and health drinks.

For most people, consuming these seeds in moderation is safe. However, due to their calorie density, large quantities can be high in calories. Individuals with nut or seed allergies should exercise caution. Consuming excess amounts may also cause stomach upset.