Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the pumpkin chunks with olive oil and a pinch of salt, then spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized, filling your kitchen with a warm, nutty aroma.
- While the pumpkin is roasting, heat a bit of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cumin, sautéing until fragrant—about 1 minute—that will smell slightly toasty and inviting.
- Once the pumpkin is cooked and cool enough to handle, transfer the roasted pieces into a blender. Pour in the coconut milk and blend until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes—this will create a velvety base for your soup.
- Pour the blended mixture into the pot with the toasted garlic and spices. Bring to a gentle simmer over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow it to cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Add smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate the spices evenly—this imparts a deep smoky aroma and vibrant color.
- If you like a bright note, add a squeeze of lemon juice and stir. Check the seasoning, adjusting salt and spices as needed to balance the flavors.
- Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot until perfectly smooth and thick. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until silky.
- Once blended, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. The soup should be warm, velvety, and have a subtle smoky sweetness with a hint of acidity.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or fresh herbs if desired. The soup should feel silky and inviting, with a beautiful rich orange color and a fragrant smoky aroma.
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.