Pumpkin Soup

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Fall is here, and with it comes the perfect weather to enjoy a warm bowl of pumpkin soup. Pumpkin soup is easy to make and can be customized in a variety of ways. Let's look at how you can create your own version of this delicious autumnal favourite.

Whether you prefer plain pumpkin soup or jazzed-up versions topped with bacon bits and fresh herbs, this hearty dish is sure to please all ages in any family gathering or dinner party alike! With just a few simple ingredients and some creativity thrown in there too, everyone will be asking for seconds when they taste your perfectly spiced pumpkin soup! So grab your favourite pot from the kitchen cupboard and get ready to whip up some deliciousness—it’s time to start cooking!

Recipe

1 fresh medium pumpkin

6 to 8  cups of homemade broth or 4 cans of Campbell's soup or other soup broth if homemade broth is not available

1 clove of garlic (minced)

1 large onion or 2 small onions (chopped)

1 rasher of bacon - reserves some bacon for a decorative and tasty topping

1 cup heavy cream (optional)

¼ cup green onion (chopped)

Chop a fresh pumpkin and remove the seeds.  If you want you can set the seeds aside and put them in a rind bath for baking later.  Seeds add a nice touch to finish off your soup but I am saving that recipe for another time.

Once you have chopped your pumpkin remove the rind and place the chopped pieces together with the chopped onions and minced garlic in a pot with 6 cups of homemade broth.  Bring the broth to a boil, then let simmer in a covered pot.

While the pumpkin is cooking, cook the bacon in a frying pan or on a bacon grill covered with a paper towel in the microwave. Using the microwave is my preferred method as it limits the amount of bacon fat included in your soup.   The fat melts into small troughs in the grill which you can use for other recipes if desired.  

I use a whole rasher of bacon because I love bacon!  You can choose to use less if worried about the calories and salt. Once the bacon is cooked break it into small pieces and put it in the soup pot. Reserve some bacon bits for the plating of your soup bowls.  

Once the pumpkin and onions are super tender remove the pot from the stove and let cool slightly.

Once you are satisfied the soup can be easily handled put the stock mixture into a blender and puree all the ingredients. Once pureed return the soup to the pot.  Before serving add one cup of heavy cream and mix together with your pureed ingredients and heat to your preference.   

You are now ready to plate your delicious soup creation.   Put the soup into your soup bowl and top it with bacon bits and green onions.  You can also add a dash of paprika for that extra presentation flare.  

Don't forget to add that delicious baguette on the side to help get every last bit of soup from your bowl.  

Nothing says autumn quite like the warm, comforting flavours of pumpkin, bacon, and green onions. 

Nutrition Profile

Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamin A, which supports eye health and can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. It's also rich in fibre, making it a great option for those looking to add more fibre into their diet. Pumpkin is low in fat and calories but high in antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Plus, it's loaded with minerals like iron, magnesium, zinc, and potassium that help support bone health and improve overall energy levels.

Health Benefits

In addition to its nutritional profile, pumpkin soup offers many other health benefits as well. For example, its high antioxidant content helps reduce oxidative stress on the body's cells and tissues while boosting immunity against common illnesses like colds and flu. Its fibre content also helps support digestion and can aid in weight loss efforts by keeping you feeling fuller for longer. Additionally, pumpkin is known to be anti-inflammatory which can help reduce joint pain associated with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.

Cooking Options

There are so many ways to enjoy pumpkin soup! You can choose to make it vegan by using vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef stock; add some spice by adding red pepper flakes or jalapenos; use coconut milk instead of cream for a lighter version; top it off with some crunchy nuts or seeds; or even add some shredded cheese for extra flavour! There are endless options when it comes to cooking up this nutritious dish!

Pumpkin soup is an incredibly versatile dish that packs an impressive nutritional punch! Not only does it taste delicious but its impressive list of vitamins and minerals makes it a nutritious choice as well. Whether you're trying to boost your immune system or simply looking for something tasty to whip up on a chilly evening, pumpkin soup should definitely be added to your meal plan rotation! So grab your favourite spices and get cooking—your taste buds (and your body) will thank you later!