Autumn's arrival brings with it the irresistible aroma of pumpkin spice and the comforting warmth of hearty soups. If you're looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dinner idea, then look no further! This pumpkin soup crockpot recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and effortlessly delivers a healthy, homemade meal that's bursting with fall flavors. Get ready to experience the ultimate in simple cooking and delicious results!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 ounce) can pumpkin puree
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup coconut milk (full-fat recommended for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: toasted pumpkin seeds, a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche, chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds a depth of flavor that elevates the soup.
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Combine Ingredients in Crockpot: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, coconut milk, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
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Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the flavors have melded beautifully and the soup is heated through. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will become.
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Blend (Optional): For a smoother, creamier soup, carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids. Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending, or vent the blender carefully to avoid splattering.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the pumpkin soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. Toasted pumpkin seeds add a lovely crunch, while a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche adds a touch of tangy richness. Fresh cilantro provides a vibrant pop of color and freshness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Pumpkin Soup:
- Roast your pumpkin: For an even more intense pumpkin flavor, roast a whole pumpkin or pumpkin cubes before pureeing. This enhances the sweetness and creates a deeper, richer taste.
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick, or experiment with other warming spices like allspice or cardamom.
- Add some sweetness: A touch of maple syrup or brown sugar can balance the spices and add a touch of sweetness if desired. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It reheats beautifully.
Variations:
- Curried Pumpkin Soup: Add 1-2 teaspoons of curry powder for a warm and exotic twist.
- Spicy Pumpkin Soup: Include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Apples: Add 1 cup of diced apples along with the onions for a delightful sweet and savory combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 6 servings. Nutritional values will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This easy crockpot pumpkin soup recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious and comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings and a wonderful example of homemade cooking at its finest. Enjoy!