Pumpkin Soup with Garlic Croutons

Velvety pumpkin soup with crunchy garlic croutons.

Pumpkin Soup with Garlic Croutons:

This creamy, comforting Pumpkin Soup is the perfect cozy dish for chilly days. Made with roasted pumpkin, warm spices, and a velvety texture, it’s both nourishing and flavorful. Topped with crispy, golden garlic croutons, every spoonful brings a delightful crunch and rich taste.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Garlic Croutons:

• 2 cups bread cubes (day-old bread works best)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• ½ tsp dried oregano or thyme
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Make the Soup:
   • Heat oil or butter in a pot over medium heat.
   • Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Add pumpkin cubes and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, until the pumpkin is tender.
   • Blend the soup using an immersion blender (or in batches using a regular blender) until smooth.
   • Stir in coconut milk or cream, nutmeg, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Garlic Croutons:
   • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, oregano, and salt.
   • Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.
3. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crunchy garlic croutons.
   • Optionally, drizzle with extra coconut milk or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Enjoy your warm and velvety pumpkin soup with crispy garlic croutons!

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Soup with Garlic Croutons

• Use Fresh Pumpkin – While canned pumpkin works, roasting fresh pumpkin enhances the natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Balance the Flavors – A touch of nutmeg, cinnamon, or curry powder adds warmth and complements the pumpkin’s natural sweetness.
• Get the Right Consistency – Blend the soup until silky smooth. If it’s too thick, add vegetable broth or coconut milk to adjust.
• Garlic Crouton Perfection – Use day-old bread, toss it with olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt, then bake until golden brown and crispy.
• Make It Extra Creamy – Stir in a bit of heavy cream, coconut milk, or Greek yogurt for a richer texture.
• Garnish for Extra Flavor – Top with toasted pumpkin seeds, fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley), or a drizzle of olive oil for a gourmet touch.

Enjoy your meal!