Pumpkin cream soup

Pumpkin cream soup is a perfect recipe for cool evenings, bringing a combination of rich flavors and a velvety texture that blends tradition with innovation. This simple and quick recipe, prepared in a slow cooker, will transform your pumpkin into a culinary delight, ideal for serving at both a casual dinner and a special occasion.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 4-6 hours (depending on the slow cooker setting)
Total time: 4-6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Ingredients

- Pie pumpkin: 800 g – 1 kg (choose pumpkins with a firm texture and vibrant color that promise a sweet taste)
- Cooking cream (from cow's milk): 200 ml (for unparalleled creaminess)
- Boiling water or vegetable stock: about 600 ml (vegetable stock will add extra flavor)
- Fresh oregano: 7-8 leaves (its fresh aroma will highlight the sweetness of the pumpkin)
- Grated Parmesan: 100 g (for an intense umami flavor)
- Green onion: 1 bunch (adds a touch of freshness)
- Chili-infused oil: to taste (for a bit of heat, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder flavor)
- Basil-infused oil: to taste (this will add a Mediterranean note)
- Salt and white pepper: to taste (to enhance the flavors)

Preparation

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by washing the pumpkin. Cut it in half, remove the seeds and skin, then cut it into cubes of about 2-3 cm. Make sure to use a sharp knife to make this process easier.

2. Chop the onion: Wash the green onion and chop it finely. This will add a crunchy and fresh note to your soup.

3. Load the slow cooker: Place the pumpkin cubes in your 4.7 L Crock Pot slow cooker. Add the chopped green onion, fresh oregano, and boiling water or vegetable stock.

4. Seasoning: Add salt, white pepper, chili-infused oil, and basil-infused oil to taste. Gently stir to combine the ingredients.

5. Cooking: Set the slow cooker to the "low" setting and let it cook for 4-6 hours. If you're in a hurry, you can opt for the "high" setting, but slow cooking will bring out a much deeper flavor.

6. Blending into cream: Once the pumpkin is tender, use an immersion blender to turn the soup into a smooth cream. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender, but be sure to leave a small opening to allow steam to escape.

7. Finishing touches: Add the cooking cream to the soup and mix well. Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more vegetable stock or water.

8. Serving: Serve the pumpkin cream soup in deep bowls. Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for added flavor and garnish with a few fresh oregano leaves. You can drizzle a bit of basil-infused oil for an appealing presentation.

Helpful tips

- Pumpkin selection: Choose a pie pumpkin, which is sweeter and has a better texture compared to other types of pumpkins. This will ensure a tastier soup.
- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as carrots or sweet potatoes, to diversify the flavor. You can also use coconut milk instead of cream for a vegan option.
- Serving: This soup pairs perfectly with garlic toast or crunchy croutons. It can be complemented with a dry white wine that will enhance the intense flavors of the pumpkin.

Nutritional benefits

Pumpkin cream soup is not only delicious but also healthy. Pumpkin is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as antioxidants that support the immune system. Its fiber content also aids digestion. The cooking cream adds a boost of calcium, and oregano is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions

- Can pumpkin cream soup be frozen? Yes, the soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Can I use canned pumpkin? Yes, but make sure to choose pure pumpkin without added sugars or spices. Adjust the amount of liquid since canned pumpkin is already cooked.
- What can I use instead of Parmesan? You can omit the Parmesan or use a vegan alternative, such as nutritional yeast, which adds a similar cheesy flavor.

Personal note

This pumpkin cream soup reminds me of evenings spent with family, when we would gather around the table and enjoy warm, comforting dishes. Each bite brings a smile to my face, and the aroma of caramelized pumpkin takes me back to cool autumns. It’s a recipe that can be customized to your preferences and will make you feel like a true chef in your own kitchen. I challenge you to try it and add your own personal touch!