02 May 2025
Cook time 30 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 leek
2 garlic cloves
8 cups pumpkin
2 cups vegetable broth
2 cups water
Classic pumpkin soup is a warm, comforting dish perfect for cooler months. It's simple to make with just a few basic ingredients, but it packs a punch with its rich, earthy flavors. Here's how you can prepare a delicious pumpkin soup in your own kitchen.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Clean and slice the leek.
- Peel, seed, and chop the pumpkin into small chunks.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
2. Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté the Leek and Garlic:
- Add the sliced leek to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the leek becomes tender and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
4. Add the Pumpkin:
- Add the chopped pumpkin to the pot and stir to combine with the leek and garlic mixture.
5. Pour in Broth and Water:
- Add 2 cups of vegetable broth and 2 cups of water to the pot.
- Stir well to combine all ingredients.
6. Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
7. Blend the Soup:
- Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For added warmth, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon.
8. Optional: Add Creaminess:
- If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at this stage and gently reheat if necessary.
9. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
10. Enjoy:
- Relish this classic, comforting pumpkin soup as an appetizer or a light meal. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, roast the pumpkin before adding it to the soup.
- Use a high-quality vegetable broth to enhance the soup's overall flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the consistency by adding more or less water, depending on your preference.
- If you prefer a creamier texture, you can blend the soup until smooth and add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
- Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, pumpkin seeds, or a sprinkle of nutmeg or paprika for an extra touch.
Enjoy your classic pumpkin soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. This simple yet flavorful dish is sure to become a fall favorite in your household. Bon appétit!