Ingredients
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon mild curry powder
- ½ teaspoon garam masala spice blend
Liquid and Main
- 3 cups vegetable stock
- 1 (14 ounce) can coconut milk (plus more for serving)
- 3 cups pumpkin puree (or butternut squash)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings (Optional)
- Pumpkin seeds, toasted
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in the curry powder and garam masala, stirring constantly to toast the spices for about 1 minute, which helps release their flavors.
- Combine Liquids and Pumpkin: Pour in the vegetable stock and canned coconut milk, then add the pumpkin puree. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld together and the soup thickens slightly.
- Blend for Creaminess: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree, then return to the pot.
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors. Warm the soup through if it has cooled during blending.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with additional coconut milk if desired, and sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds and chopped fresh cilantro for a delicious finishing touch.
Notes
- Use fresh pumpkin puree or canned, or substitute with butternut squash puree if preferred.
- Adjust curry powder and garam masala according to your spice tolerance.
- For a richer soup, use full-fat coconut milk.
- To toast pumpkin seeds, dry roast them over medium heat in a skillet until golden and fragrant.
- This soup pairs well with crusty bread or naan for a filling meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Vegetarian