Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
Warm up with this delicious and comforting spicy pumpkin squash soup, packed with flavor and perfect for chilly days.
This Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. The combination of pumpkin and squash creates a creamy base, while the spices add a kick that elevates this soup to a whole new level.
Why You'll Love This Soup
- A perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors
- Creamy texture that is comforting and satisfying
- Healthy and packed with nutrients
- Great for meal prep and freezing
The Health Benefits of Pumpkin and Squash
Pumpkin and butternut squash are both nutritional powerhouses. They are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy vision and boosting your immune system. These vegetables are also high in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer. Incorporating them into your diet can contribute to overall health and wellness.
Additionally, pumpkin is low in calories while being dense in nutrients, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy weight. The antioxidants found in pumpkin and squash can help combat oxidative stress in the body, reducing inflammation and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
Perfect Pairings for Your Soup
This spicy pumpkin squash soup pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a hearty meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or a warm baguette. The bread not only complements the soup but also helps to soak up the rich flavors, making each bite even more satisfying.
For a lighter option, a simple side salad with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup. Adding roasted seeds or nuts to the salad can also give it a crunchy texture that enhances your dining experience.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining the soup's flavor and texture. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a convenient option for meal prep.
When reheating, you can use a stove or microwave. If using the stove, gently warm the soup over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. This soup also freezes well, so you can enjoy it later on chilly days!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious soup:
Ingredients
- 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and diced
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start making the soup!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup:
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add Spices and Vegetables
Stir in the cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Add the diced pumpkin and butternut squash, mixing well to coat with the spices.
Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Season and Serve
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Enjoy your Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup with some crusty bread!
Variations to Try
Feel free to get creative with this soup recipe! You can add other vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or even zucchini for added flavor and texture. If you want to enhance the creaminess, consider stirring in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream just before serving, giving it a richer profile.
For those who prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether. You can also add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy twist that complements the sweetness of the pumpkin and squash.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your soup even further, consider garnishing it with toasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. This not only adds a visual appeal but also introduces an extra layer of flavor and texture that can take your soup from good to great.
For a festive touch, you can sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives over the top. These bright green accents not only look beautiful but also add a fresh taste that balances the rich, spicy notes of the soup.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned pumpkin for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute canned pumpkin; just reduce the cooking time.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months.
→ What can I use instead of vegetable broth?
You can use chicken broth or water, but vegetable broth adds more flavor.
Spicy Pumpkin Squash Soup
Warm up with this delicious and comforting spicy pumpkin squash soup, packed with flavor and perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Rosalie Mitchell
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and diced
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Add the diced pumpkin and butternut squash, mixing well to coat with the spices.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 6g