Spiced pumpkin soup with cumin cream

This spiced pumpkin soup features a blend of cumin, chili peppers, and pumpkin for a rich and aromatic flavor. Topped with a tangy cumin cream, it makes a comforting dish perfect for chilly days.

29 Nov 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp butter
1 tsp ground cumin
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
2 red hot chili peppers
8 cups pumpkin
4 cups chicken gravy
salt & pepper to taste
1/3 cup sour cream
Spiced pumpkin soup with cumin cream

Warm up on a chilly day with this rich and aromatic spiced pumpkin soup. The blend of cumin, chili peppers, and creamy pumpkin makes for a perfect comfort dish. Top it off with a dollop of tangy cumin cream for an extra layer of flavor.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Peel and cube the pumpkin until you have 8 cups.
- Finely chop the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Chop the red hot chili peppers.
2. Cook the Aromatics:
- In a large saucepan or pot, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, chopped chili peppers, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Pumpkin and Gravy:
- Add the cubed pumpkin to the pot, stirring to coat it with the aromatic mixture.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken gravy and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Blend the Soup:
- Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it is smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a countertop blender in batches and blend until smooth. Be careful with the hot liquid.
- Season the soup to taste with salt and pepper.
6. Prepare the Cumin Cream:
- While the soup is simmering, in a small bowl, mix the 1/3 cup of sour cream with a pinch of ground cumin until well combined.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the hot pumpkin soup into bowls.
- Garnish each serving with a dollop of the cumin cream.
- Optionally, you can add an additional sprinkle of ground cumin or some freshly ground black pepper on top.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve the soup warm accompanied by crusty bread or your favorite side.

This spiced pumpkin soup with a hint of cumin and heat from chili peppers is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of fall. Easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy dinner, it will surely become a seasonal favorite. Don't forget to add that spoonful of cumin cream for a tangy finish that ties all the flavors together!

Spiced pumpkin soup with cumin cream FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the pumpkin soup?

The soup takes about 20-30 minutes to simmer after you bring it to a boil, making the total cooking time approximately 30-40 minutes including prep and blending.

How can I tell when the pumpkin is done cooking?

The pumpkin is done when it is tender enough to be pierced easily with a fork. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes of simmering.

Can I store leftovers of this pumpkin soup?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat until heated through.

What can I use instead of chicken gravy?

You can substitute the chicken gravy with vegetable broth or a homemade broth to keep it vegetarian. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to enhance flavor.

What type of pumpkin is best for this soup?

Sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins are ideal for this soup due to their sweetness and creaminess. Avoid using carving pumpkins as they are less flavorful and more watery.

Tips:

- Choose the Right Pumpkin: Opt for sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins, as they have a sweeter and more flavorful flesh compared to carving pumpkins.

- Prep Ingredients Ahead: Dice the onions, chop the garlic and chili peppers, and cube the pumpkin before you start cooking to streamline the process.

- Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground cumin will provide a stronger, more vibrant flavor than pre-ground cumin.

- Blending the Soup: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot or blend in batches in a countertop blender after cooking.

- Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more chicken gravy or water until you reach the desired consistency.

- Flavor Development: Let the soup simmer gently for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

- Serving Suggestions: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, and serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 280kcal
Protein 5g
Carbohydrates 33g
Fiber 2.58g
Sugar 11g
Fat 16g

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