Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Pumpkin and Spices:
Stir in the pumpkin puree, mixing well with the sautéed vegetables.
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the vegetable broth and stir well to combine.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure that the soup doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Blend the Soup:
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth. Be cautious as the soup will be hot.
Add Cream:
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls.
Garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of cream or olive oil if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Croutons: Add homemade or store-bought croutons for extra texture.
Protein: For a heartier meal, top the soup with cooked, shredded chicken or chickpeas.
Benefits:
Nutrient-Rich: Pumpkin is high in vitamins A and C, making this soup not only tasty but also beneficial for your immune system.
Comforting: The warm spices and creamy texture make it a comforting meal, perfect for chilly evenings.
This pumpkin soup is a delightful dish that you can easily whip up in just 30 minutes. It’s a perfect solution for a quick dinner or when you need a comforting meal without much fuss. Enjoy your daily bowl of homemade goodness with this simple recipe!