Sopa De Calabaza Pumpkin Soup

There’s something truly comforting about a steaming bowl of soup on a crisp autumn evening. One of my favorite recipes to warm both body and soul is a classic Spanish-inspired pumpkin soup, or as it’s known in Spanish, Sopa De Calabaza. This velvety soup is infused with the rich flavors of roasted pumpkin, aromatic spices, and a hint of creaminess that makes it perfect for cozy nights at home. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a staple in your fall menu rotation.

**Sopa De Calabaza Pumpkin Soup**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1 cup of coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil
– Fresh parsley for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. **Roast the Pumpkin**: Place the cubed pumpkin on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and slightly caramelized.

3. **Sauté the Aromatics**: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

4. **Add Spices**: Sprinkle in the ground cumin and smoked paprika, stirring to coat the onions and garlic with the spices for about a minute.

5. **Blend Ingredients**: Add the roasted pumpkin to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. **Puree the Soup**: Using an immersion blender or a regular blender (in batches), carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Be cautious with hot liquids.

7. **Add Coconut Milk**: Stir in the coconut milk, which will add a velvety richness to the soup. Let it simmer for an extra 5 minutes to heat through.

8. **Season to Perfection**: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

9. **Serve and Garnish**: Ladle the warm Sopa De Calabaza into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

This Sopa De Calabaza Pumpkin Soup is the epitome of fall flavors in a bowl. The earthy sweetness of the pumpkin, the warming spices, and the creaminess of the coconut milk come together harmoniously to create a dish that will delight your taste buds and fill your home with irresistible aromas.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal to enjoy by the fireside or a simple yet elegant starter for a dinner party, this pumpkin soup is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, don your favorite apron, and immerse yourself in the joy of cooking this Spanish-inspired delight.