Pumpkin cream soup

Pumpkin cream soup is a dish that brings warmth and comfort in every bite. With a velvety texture and rich flavor, this soup is not only an excellent seasonal choice but also a delicious way to take advantage of the nutritional benefits of pumpkin. In this recipe, the roasted pumpkin will reveal its full flavor, while the smoked bacon will add a special note of taste.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 400 g pumpkin (preferably Hokkaido or Butternut)
- 1 large onion
- 4-5 slices of smoked bacon
- 200 g sour cream (preferably heavy cream)
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- A pinch of nutmeg (optional, for a more complex flavor)

Step by step: Preparing the pumpkin cream soup

1. Preparing the pumpkin:
Start by peeling the pumpkin. Use a sharp knife to cut it into small cubes, about 2-3 cm, to ensure even roasting. Remove the seeds, which can be roasted later for a crunchy snack.

2. Seasoning:
Place the pumpkin cubes in a baking tray. Sprinkle salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme over the pumpkin, then add a drizzle of olive oil. The oil will not only help the flavors develop but also contribute to a pleasant texture. Mix the ingredients well to ensure each cube is evenly coated.

3. Roasting the pumpkin:
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the tray in the oven and let the pumpkin roast for 25-30 minutes or until soft and caramelized at the edges. Roasting adds a depth of flavor that boiling cannot provide, so don't skip this crucial step!

4. Preparing the bacon:
In a skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Cut the bacon into thin strips and fry until crispy and golden. Remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on a paper towel. The remaining fat in the skillet will be used to sauté the onion.

5. Sautéing the onion:
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. The aroma of the caramelized onion will blend perfectly with the sweetness of the roasted pumpkin.

6. Combining the ingredients:
Once the pumpkin is ready, add it to the skillet over the sautéed onion. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients (about 500 ml) and let it come to a boil for 2-3 minutes.

7. Blending the soup:
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the mixture until you achieve a creamy and velvety consistency. If you want an even smoother soup, you can strain the mixture through a fine sieve.

8. Finalizing the soup:
Put the soup back on low heat and add the sour cream, stirring well to combine the ingredients. Season with salt, pepper, and if you like, a pinch of nutmeg for a more complex flavor. Let the soup warm up a bit, but do not let it boil.

9. Serving:
Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with the remaining sour cream and fried bacon. A slice of toasted bread or a fresh baguette on the side will perfectly complete the meal.

Useful tips:
- If you don't have smoked bacon, you can use pancetta or even smoked tofu for a vegetarian option.
- The soup can be enriched with croutons or roasted seeds for added texture.
- You can also add other spices, such as curry or chili, to give it a more exotic flavor.
- This soup can be stored in the freezer, so you can prepare a double batch for busy days.

Nutritional benefits:
Pumpkin cream soup is rich in vitamins A and C, providing a boost of antioxidants and supporting the immune system. Pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, the sour cream adds a dose of healthy fats, essential for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Frequently asked questions:
- *Can I use frozen pumpkin?* Yes, frozen pumpkin is a convenient option, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before use.
- *How can I make the soup spicier?* Add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of Tabasco sauce for a flavor kick.
- *What drinks pair well with pumpkin soup?* A dry white wine or apple cider complements the soup's flavors nicely, providing a pleasant contrast.

Explore this pumpkin cream soup recipe and let yourself be inspired to experiment with various flavors and ingredients. Whether you serve it at a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is sure to bring smiles to everyone's faces. Enjoy!