Pumpkin soup with caramelised onion

Pumpkin soup with caramelised onion combines earthy pumpkin flavours with sweet, sticky caramelised onions for a comforting autumn dish. This creamy soup is easy to make and perfect for chilly days.

14 Dec 2025
Cook time 45 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
2 red onions
1 leek
8 cups pumpkin
1 tsp ground nutmeg
3 cups chicken gravy
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/3 cup vinegar
1/3 cup brown sugar

Pumpkin soup with caramelized onion is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the earthy flavors of pumpkin with the sweetness of caramelized onions. This creamy soup is perfect for a cozy autumn meal, offering a comforting experience with every spoonful. It's easy to prepare and utilizes basic ingredients that work together to create a depth of flavor that’s both complex and satisfying.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Peel and thinly slice 2 red onions.
- Clean and slice 1 leek.
- Peel, seed, and cube 8 cups of pumpkin.

2. Caramelize the Onions:
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced red onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are deep golden brown and caramelized. This should take about 15-20 minutes.
- Add the brown sugar and vinegar to the caramelized onions. Stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onions are sticky and well-coated. Remove from the pot and set aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pot used for the onions, add the sliced leek. Cook for 3-5 minutes, until softened.
- Add the cubed pumpkin and ground nutmeg to the pot with the leeks. Stir to combine.

4. Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the 3 cups of chicken gravy. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.

5. Blend the Soup:
- Use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a stand blender, then return it to the pot after blending.

6. Add Cream:
- Stir in the 1 cup of heavy whipping cream. Heat the soup gently, but do not let it come to a boil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Combine and Serve:
- Serve the soup hot, topped with a spoonful of the caramelized onions for a burst of flavor.

8. Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with additional caramelized onions if desired, and enjoy your delicious Pumpkin Soup with Caramelised Onion!

With its rich and creamy texture, pumpkin soup with caramelized onion is a versatile dish that’s perfect for a starter or a main course. The sweet caramelized onions beautifully complement the savory pumpkin, making it a flavorful and satisfying dish. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a festive occasion, this soup is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings to your table!

Pumpkin soup with caramelised onion FAQ:

What size pumpkin should I use for this recipe?

You need approximately 8 cups of cubed pumpkin, which can come from a medium to large pumpkin. If using smaller pumpkins, you may need 2 to 3, depending on their size.

How long does the soup need to simmer?

Simmer the soup for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender. This allows the flavors to meld and ensures the pumpkin cooks through.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

What can I substitute for chicken gravy in this recipe?

You can substitute chicken gravy with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or use homemade chicken stock if preferred.

How can I tell if the pumpkin is cooked through?

The pumpkin is cooked when it's tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes of simmering.

Tips:

- For a smoother texture, blend the soup with an immersion blender or in batches using a countertop blender after cooking.

- Make sure to caramelize the onions slowly over low heat to bring out their natural sweetness without burning them.

- You can substitute chicken gravy with vegetable broth to make the soup vegetarian.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste with salt and pepper before serving.

- Garnish the soup with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an added layer of flavor and a pop of color.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 320kcal
Protein 4.41g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 2.79g
Sugar 22g
Fat 20g

Pumpkin soup with caramelised onion