How to Make Pumpkin Soup: A Delicious and Nutritious Recipe
As the seasons change and the weather cools, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of pumpkin soup to warm the soul. Made with roasted pumpkin, onions, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices, this creamy soup is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a nutritious and filling meal. In this article, we’ll take you through the simple steps of making pumpkin soup from scratch, so you can enjoy this seasonal delight in the comfort of your own home.
What You’ll Need
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at what you’ll need to get started:
- Ingredients:
- 1 large pumpkin (about 2-3 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
- Fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for garnish
- Equipment:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or regular blender
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step 1: Roast the Pumpkin
The first step in making pumpkin soup is to roast the pumpkin. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp. Place the pumpkin halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Roast the pumpkin in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and caramelized.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
While the pumpkin is roasting, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Blend the Pumpkin and Onion Mixture
Once the pumpkin is roasted, let it cool slightly. Scoop the flesh out of the skin and add it to the pot with the onion and garlic mixture. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Spices
Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot, along with the cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 5: Blend the Soup
Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to blend the soup until smooth. If desired, add the heavy cream or half-and-half and blend until well combined.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
- Add a splash of nutmeg or cinnamon for an extra boost of flavor.
- Use roasted pumpkin seeds as a garnish for added texture and crunch.
- Add some diced carrots or celery for added sweetness and texture.
- Make it a cream-free soup by substituting the heavy cream or half-and-half with an additional cup of broth.
- Freeze it for later by cooling the soup to room temperature and transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Pumpkin Soup Nutrition Facts
Per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 170
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
- Protein: 3g
Conclusion
Pumpkin soup is a delicious and nutritious way to warm up during the fall and winter months. By following these simple steps, you can create a creamy and comforting soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With its high fiber and antioxidant content, pumpkin soup is a great way to boost your immune system and support overall health. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious flavors of the season!