Description
A rich and velvety pumpkin soup, perfectly spiced and incredibly comforting, ideal for a chilly autumn day.
Ingredients
2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted buttern1 large yellow onion, choppedn2 cloves garlic, mincedn1 small (2-3 lb) cooking pumpkin (like Sugar Pie or Kabocha), peeled, seeded, and cubed OR 2 (15 oz) cans pumpkin pureen4 cups chicken or vegetable brothn1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)n1 tsp ground gingern1/2 tsp ground nutmegn1/4 tsp ground cinnamonnSalt and freshly ground black pepper to tastenOptional garnishes: toasted pumpkin seeds, fresh sage leaves, a swirl of cream
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the pumpkin. If using fresh pumpkin, peel, seed, and cut it into 1-inch cubes. If using canned pumpkin, proceed to the next step.nStep 2: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.nStep 3: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.nStep 4: Stir in the cubed pumpkin (or canned pumpkin puree). Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Add ground ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Season generously with salt and pepper.nStep 5: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the fresh pumpkin is very tender. If using canned pumpkin, simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.nStep 6: Carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until completely smooth. Alternatively, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.nStep 7: Return the blended soup to the pot (if using a regular blender). Stir in the heavy cream and heat gently until warmed through. Do not boil after adding cream. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.nStep 8: Ladle the creamy pumpkin soup into bowls. Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds, fresh sage, or an extra swirl of cream if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
For an extra depth of flavor, roast the fresh pumpkin cubes before adding them to the soup. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce. Ensure your pumpkin puree is 100% pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering, Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg