Pumpkin cream soup

Pumpkin Cream Soup – The Elixir of Autumn

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn’t love a pumpkin cream soup? This cream soup recipe is not only a delicious choice but also a healthy one, bringing a touch of warmth to cool days. Pumpkin, known for its nutritional properties and energy-boosting power, is the main ingredient of this soup. Since ancient times, pumpkin has been appreciated not only for its sweet taste but also for its health benefits.

Necessary ingredients:

- 600 g pumpkin, peeled and seeded
- 250 g potatoes, peeled
- 200 ml cream (you can use cooking cream or heavy cream for a richer taste)
- 1 liter of water
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of chili (or more if you like it spicy)
- Salt, to taste
- Roasted pumpkin seeds (for garnish)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and cutting the pumpkin, potatoes, and onion into medium-sized pieces. This will help the vegetables cook evenly.

2. Boiling: Add all the ingredients, including the water, into a large pot. Make sure all the vegetables are covered with water. Add salt, grated ginger, cinnamon, and chili. Cover the pot with a lid and let it boil over medium heat for 10 minutes or until the pumpkin and potatoes are soft enough to blend.

3. Blending: Once the vegetables are cooked, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to turn everything into a smooth cream. Gradually add the cream, stirring constantly to achieve a homogeneous and creamy consistency. Adjust the salt to taste.

4. Serving: Pour the soup into bowls and add a tablespoon of cream to each. Sprinkle the remaining spices (cinnamon and chili) and gently swirl with the back of a spoon to create a beautiful pattern.

5. Garnishing: For added texture and an appetizing look, garnish each serving with roasted pumpkin seeds. They not only add a special flavor but also a crunchy contrast to the creamy soup.

Practical tips:

- Choose the right pumpkin: Opt for Hokkaido or Butternut pumpkins, which have a sweeter texture and taste, ideal for soups.
- Variations: You can experiment with flavors by adding a bunch of fresh basil or parsley for a fresher taste.
- Storing the soup: The pumpkin cream soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can gently reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

Nutritional benefits:

Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, being rich in vitamin A, which supports eye health, and vitamin C, which helps the immune system. It also contains antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals. Combined with potatoes, this soup becomes a hearty meal, perfect for a light lunch or dinner.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen pumpkin? Yes, frozen pumpkin is a convenient option, but make sure it is well-thawed and drained of excess water before using it.
2. How can I make the soup spicier? You can add more chili or even a bit of cayenne pepper for a more intense flavor.
3. What could I serve alongside the soup? This soup pairs perfectly with crunchy croutons or a fresh green salad. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine or a warm drink made from apples and cinnamon would perfectly complement the meal.

In conclusion, pumpkin cream soup is a simple and delicious recipe that will warm you up and give you an energy boost. Don’t hesitate to try it, personalize it to your taste, and enjoy every spoonful! Enjoy your meal!