Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 4 cups pumpkin puree (homemade or canned)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for a richer soup)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional garnishes: roasted pumpkin seeds, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives), a drizzle of olive oil or coconut milk

Instructions:

1. Saute Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Spices and Pumpkin Puree: Stir in ground cumin, ground coriander, ground nutmeg, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for about 1 minute until spices are fragrant. Add pumpkin puree and stir to combine.
3. Simmer Soup: Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Blend Soup: Remove the pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Be cautious as hot liquids can splatter.
5. Add Coconut Milk and Seasoning: Return the blended soup to the pot (if using a blender). Stir in coconut milk (or heavy cream) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through gently over low heat, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve: Ladle the creamy pumpkin soup into bowls. Garnish with roasted pumpkin seeds, chopped fresh herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil or coconut milk, if desired.

Variations:

• Add Protein: Stir in cooked and shredded chicken, diced cooked bacon, or cooked sausage for added protein.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit any meat-based garnishes.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.

This Creamy Pumpkin Soup is velvety smooth and packed with comforting flavors of pumpkin and warm spices. It's perfect for cozy winter evenings and can be served as a starter or a main dish with crusty bread on the side. Enjoy the creamy goodness!

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