Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Soup with Spiced Crème Recipe

A luscious and savory roasted pumpkin soup topped with a lightly spiced crème for any occasion.

As the leaves begin to change and the air takes on a brisk quality, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and joy. In this recipe, we harness the flavors of roasted pumpkin to create a deeply savory and creamy soup that's perfect for autumn. The combination of spices and creamy texture makes it an ideal dish to serve at a cozy family gathering or an elegant dinner party.

This Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Soup is more than just a meal; it's an experience. The act of roasting the pumpkin enhances its natural sweetness and yields a rich, earthy taste that beautifully complements the spiced crème topping. The spiced crème, made with just a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon, adds an extra layer of flavor that elevates this dish from simple to sublime.

Ingredients

• 1 medium-sized sugar pumpkin (about 2-3 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (for crème)
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for crème)

Nutrition

Calories: ~250 calories per serving

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Pumpkin: Cut the pumpkin in half and scrape out the seeds. Brush the cut sides with olive oil, then place the halves cut side down on a baking sheet.
3. Roast Pumpkin: Roast the pumpkin in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the flesh is very tender when pierced with a fork. Allow it to cool slightly.
4. Sauté Vegetables: While the pumpkin is cooling, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, coriander, nutmeg, and cinnamon, and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spices are aromatic.
6. Blend Soup Base: Scoop the flesh from the roasted pumpkin into the pot. Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
7. Puree Soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the soup to the pot if using a blender.
8. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
9. Prepare Spiced Crème: In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. Mix until well blended.
10. Serve Soup: Ladle the soup into bowls and top each serving with a dollop of spiced crème. Swirl the crème with a spoon for a decorative touch.

This Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Soup with Spiced Crème is a delightful addition to your fall recipe repertoire. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it's also incredibly nourishing. The richness of the pumpkin, combined with the aromatic spices and the luxurious cream, makes for a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for chilly evenings.

One useful tip when making this soup is to ensure the pumpkin is thoroughly roasted until it's very tender. This enhances the natural sweetness and makes it easier to blend into a smooth consistency. Additionally, feel free to experiment with the spices to suit your palate. Some people prefer a hint of curry powder or a touch more cinnamon to give the soup a unique flavor profile.

If you're looking to add a bit of texture to your soup, consider topping it with toasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. These garnishes not only add visual appeal but also contribute a delightful crunch and burst of fresh flavor.

This soup pairs well with a crusty piece of bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. Whether you're serving it as an appetizer at a dinner party or as a main course for a cozy night in, this Creamy Roasted Pumpkin Soup with Spiced Crème is sure to impress and satisfy.