How to Make French Soup with Roasted Pumpkin
French cuisine is celebrated for its rich flavors and comforting meals, and one of the most delightful dishes is French soup with roasted pumpkin. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with aromatic herbs and spices, making it a perfect autumn dish. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious and warming French pumpkin soup.
Ingredients
- 1 medium-sized pumpkin (approximately 2-3 pounds)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream (optional for richness)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or sage for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pumpkin
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the pumpkin in half and scoop out the seeds and strings. You can either roast the pumpkin halves directly or cut the flesh into cubes for faster roasting. Drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place the pumpkin on a baking sheet, cut side down, and roast for about 30-40 minutes, or until the flesh is tender.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
While the pumpkin is roasting, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Once the pumpkin is roasted and cooled slightly, scoop the flesh into the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you do not have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a traditional blender. Be cautious with hot liquids! After blending, return the soup to the pot.
Step 5: Add Cream and Season
If you desire a creamier texture, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Season the soup with additional salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes on low heat.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Pour the French soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or sage. For an extra touch, consider topping with a drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of crème fraîche.
Enjoy Your Homemade French Pumpkin Soup
This French soup with roasted pumpkin is not only easy to make, but it also brings a comforting warmth that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Pair it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy evening alone, this recipe is sure to impress!
Try making this delectable soup, and savor the authentic flavors of France in your kitchen!