Description
A velvety, spicy pumpkin soup that glows with autumn warmth. Made with roasted pumpkin puree, garlic, smoked paprika, and a touch of chili, it absorbs rich flavor from a quick sauté and simmer, then blended to silky perfection for a comforting, bowl-warming meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main
- 2 cups pumpkin puree (cooked or canned)
Olive Oil & Garlic
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Spices
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (ground)
- 1 small red chili (finely chopped, or chili flakes to taste)
Liquids
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- to taste salt and pepper
Finish
- optional hot sauce or honey (for adjusting spice and sweetness)
Instructions
- Begin with the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant and just beginning to turn golden.
- Toast the spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, and chopped chili, cooking for another minute to toast the spices and release their aroma.
- Add the pumpkin: Add the pumpkin puree to the pot, stirring well to coat all the spices and combine into a vibrant orange mixture.
- Introduce the liquid: Pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to mix everything evenly. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the soup to thicken slightly.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like extra heat or sweetness, add hot sauce or honey accordingly, stirring briefly to incorporate.
- Blend to silky texture: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches, blending until smooth and velvety. Return to the pot if using a stand blender, and warm through for another 2 minutes.
- Final taste: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. It should be bright, spicy, and velvety with a rich orange color.
- Serve: Ladle hot soup into bowls, garnish with a sprinkle of chili or a drizzle of olive oil if desired, and serve with crusty bread for a cozy, satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a smoother texture, strain the soup after blending and return to the pot.
- If you prefer a thinner soup, add a splash more vegetable broth or water.
- To enhance creaminess without dairy, stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk or a pinch of white miso at the end.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin soup, spicy soup, autumn soup, vegetarian soup, easy pumpkin recipe, comfort food, cozy dinner
