Pumpkin soup is one of our favorite autumn dishes. It’s creamy, aromatic, and full of cozy flavors that make it perfect for a starter or a satisfying lunch. Unlike sweet pumpkin treats, this soup has a savory flavor, enriched by rosemary, garlic, caramelized onions, and a touch of curry.
For a vegan version, we use olive oil instead of butter, coconut milk instead of cream, and vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. If time allows, roasting fresh pumpkin will give the soup an even richer taste.
<h3>Ingredients for 6 Servings</h3>
<b>Soup Base:</b>
3 tablespoons of unsalted butter (or olive oil for a vegan alternative)
2 medium yellow onions, halved and sliced thinly
2 tablespoons of fresh rosemary, chopped (or 2 teaspoons of dried rosemary)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 4 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
- ½ cup of fresh apple cider (or ¾ cup of apple juice)
- 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth, and extra if necessary
- 2 (15 oz) cans pumpkin puree (or 3 cups homemade pumpkin puree)
- 1 teaspoon mild curry powder
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg, plus extra for garnish
- A pinch of ground cloves
- 1½ teaspoons of kosher salt, or more to taste
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper, or more to taste
- ⅓ cup coconut milk, more for garnish
<b>Optional Crispy Sage Topping:</b>
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil)
- 12 fresh sage leaves
<h3>Step 1: Caramelize the Onions</h3>
Heat 3 tablespoons of butter or olive oil in a medium, heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat.
Add 2 sliced onions and 2 tablespoons rosemary.
Stir occasionally for 15–20 minutes until onions are lightly caramelized.
If onions brown too fast, lower the heat to prevent burning.
<h3>Step 2: Add Maple Syrup, Garlic, and Apple Cider</h3>
Stir in 2 tablespoons maple syrup and 4 chopped garlic cloves.
Cook for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions turn a deeper golden color.
Pour in ½ cup apple cider and scrape the bottom of the pan to lift any caramelized bits.
Continue cooking until liquid reduces by half.
<h3>Step 3: Add Pumpkin and Spices</h3>
Add 4 cups vegetable broth and 2 cans (15 oz) pumpkin puree.
Mix in 1 teaspoon curry powder, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, a pinch of cloves, 1½ teaspoons salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
Stir everything well and bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
<h3>Step 4: Blend the Soup</h3>
Blend the soup in batches using a blender or food processor until smooth.
Alternatively, use a hand blender directly in the pan.
Return soup to medium heat and simmer for a few more minutes.
Stir in ⅓ cup coconut milk.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra broth if soup is too thick.
<h3>Step 5: Optional Crispy Sage</h3>
Melt 2 tablespoons butter or heat olive oil in a small pan over medium-high heat.
Fry 12 sage leaves for 1–2 minutes until just crispy.
Remove leaves with a slotted spoon onto paper towels. Keep remaining butter or oil for drizzling.
<h3>Step 6: Serve and Garnish</h3>
Ladle the soup into bowls.
Top each bowl with 2 crispy sage leaves.
Drizzle with leftover butter or oil, swirl in extra coconut milk, and sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg.
Serve hot with crusty bread or a light salad.
<h3>Optional Homemade Pumpkin Puree</h3>
Preheat oven to 425°F.
Trim 4–5 pounds of sugar or pie pumpkins, cut in half, and remove seeds and pulp.
Cut into 1½-inch wedges and place on a parchment-lined tray.
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Roast 35–40 minutes, turning halfway, until tender.
Cool slightly, scoop out flesh, and mash until smooth.
<h3>Final Thoughts</h3>
Making pumpkin soup is simple and satisfying. Each step—from caramelizing onions to adding spices and blending creamy coconut milk—builds layers of flavor.
We love sharing this soup with friends and family, especially during cozy autumn afternoons. Lykkers, try adding your own twist with roasted pumpkin, extra herbs, or a touch of spice. Enjoy a warm bowl, relax, and let this comforting soup brighten your day!
Pumpkin soup (a must try winter comfort food)
Video by Spice Bangla