There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of pumpkin soup, especially when the cool, crisp air of fall settles in. If you’ve ever craved a dish that feels like a cozy hug from the inside, pumpkin soup is the perfect choice. Jamie Oliver’s take on this classic dish is a fantastic balance of fresh, flavorful ingredients, simplicity, and heartiness. Whether you’re looking for an easy dinner or a showstopper starter for a seasonal gathering, this recipe is sure to impress.
In this guide, we’ll break down Jamie Oliver’s Pumpkin Soup recipe step by step, diving into the ingredients, the cooking process, and all the tips and tricks you’ll need to make it absolutely perfect. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned pro, there’s something here for everyone.
Pumpkin Soup Jamie Oliver Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s pumpkin soup recipe is simple, yet full of flavor, with a hint of warmth from spices and a touch of sweetness from the pumpkin. The soup combines fresh, seasonal ingredients, and its creamy texture is balanced perfectly by the right mix of herbs and seasoning.
Here’s a basic rundown of the recipe:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 40 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6
The beauty of this recipe is that it requires minimal effort and equipment, making it ideal for a quick dinner or a family meal. By following Jamie’s approach, you’ll create a comforting and rich soup that highlights the pumpkin’s natural sweetness and flavor.
Ingredients Needed
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s go over the ingredients that are key to creating this delicious soup:
- 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 1.5 kg) – Jamie recommends using a pumpkin that has a nice balance of sweetness and texture. You can also use butternut squash if that’s more accessible.
- 1 large onion – This adds a savory base that balances the pumpkin’s sweetness and provides depth.
- 2 cloves garlic – Garlic enhances the flavor and adds a bit of aromatic punch to the soup.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the onions and garlic and giving the soup a silky smooth finish.
- 750 ml vegetable stock – A good quality vegetable stock is crucial to the overall flavor profile.
- 100 ml double cream – To make the soup extra creamy and indulgent. You can substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Adds a subtle earthy warmth that complements the pumpkin.
- A pinch of chili flakes – Just a little kick to add some heat to balance the sweetness of the pumpkin.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional) – For garnish, adding a fresh pop of color and flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Now, let’s get into the step-by-step process of turning these ingredients into a rich, comforting pumpkin soup.
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Prep The Pumpkin
Start by peeling and deseeding your pumpkin. Cut it into large chunks, which will help it cook faster. You can reserve some of the seeds for roasting later if you like a crunchy garnish.
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Sauté The Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it turns soft and translucent. Then, add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. The garlic should be fragrant but not burnt.
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Cook The Pumpkin
Add the pumpkin chunks to the pot, stirring them around with the onions and garlic. Sprinkle in the cumin and chili flakes, and let everything cook together for about 5 minutes. This will allow the spices to toast slightly and enhance their flavor.
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Add The Stock
Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is soft and easily pierced with a fork.
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Blend The Soup
Once the pumpkin is cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup in batches to a stand blender, but be careful as it will be hot.
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Finish With Cream
Stir in the double cream to give the soup a rich and velvety texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
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Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley or thyme). Serve with crusty bread on the side for an extra comforting touch.
Ingredient Insights
- Pumpkin: The star ingredient in this soup, pumpkin is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s low in calories, which makes it a great base for a healthy, comforting dish.
- Cumin: This spice is a flavor powerhouse. It has a warm, earthy, and slightly nutty taste that enhances the sweetness of the pumpkin, balancing the dish beautifully. Cumin is also known for its digestion-boosting properties.
- Double Cream: The addition of cream transforms the soup into a silky, luxurious bowl of comfort. The richness of the cream cuts through the natural sweetness of the pumpkin, creating a well-rounded texture. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, coconut milk can be used instead of cream.
- Vegetable Stock: The quality of your stock is crucial. Homemade vegetable stock is ideal because it has more depth and flavor than store-bought versions. But if you’re pressed for time, a good-quality store-bought vegetable stock will work just fine.
Expert Tips
- Roast the Pumpkin First: For an even deeper flavor, consider roasting the pumpkin chunks before adding them to the soup. Roasting caramelizes the sugars in the pumpkin, giving it a richer, sweeter taste.
- Texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, don’t blend it fully. Pulse it a few times with an immersion blender for a more rustic texture.
- Spice Variations: Experiment with other spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of smoked paprika for an extra layer of complexity. If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Vegan Option: To make this soup vegan, simply replace the double cream with coconut milk or almond milk, and use a vegan-friendly stock cube.
- Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day. It’s a perfect make-ahead dish for meal prepping, and it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can even freeze it for later!
Recipe Variations
While Jamie Oliver’s pumpkin soup is already perfect as is, there are plenty of ways to switch things up depending on your taste preferences or what ingredients you have on hand.
- Roasted Garlic and Herb: For a more aromatic flavor, try roasting the garlic along with the pumpkin. This adds a sweet, caramelized garlic flavor to the soup.
- Ginger and Coconut: Add fresh ginger to the pot for a zesty, fragrant kick. Pair this with coconut milk instead of cream for a tropical twist.
- Caramelized Onion: Instead of using plain sautéed onions, caramelize them first for a richer, sweeter base that will enhance the overall depth of the soup.
- Chili and Lime: For a bit of a zingy twist, add fresh lime juice and chopped fresh chili to the soup before serving. This will give it a fresh, zesty flavor.
- Cheese and Bacon: If you’re not worried about keeping the recipe vegetarian, top the soup with crispy bacon pieces and grated cheese, like parmesan or cheddar, for an indulgent touch.
Final Words
Pumpkin soup is one of those dishes that’s incredibly versatile, comforting, and packed with flavor. Jamie Oliver’s recipe brings all of these elements together effortlessly. The soup is not only quick and easy to make but also packed with nutrients, making it the perfect option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.
By using simple, fresh ingredients and following a few key tips, you can create a soup that feels both homemade and special. And the best part? It’s completely customizable. Whether you like it creamy or chunky, spicy or mild, you can adjust the flavors to suit your taste.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Pumpkin Soup?
Jamie Oliver’s pumpkin soup typically requires pumpkin, onion, garlic, vegetable or chicken stock, olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs like thyme. Some variations may include cream or coconut milk for added richness.
How Long Does It Take To Make Jamie Oliver’s Pumpkin Soup?
The preparation time for Jamie Oliver’s pumpkin soup is about 15-20 minutes, while the cooking time takes approximately 30 minutes, making the total time around 45 minutes.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Pumpkin Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make Jamie Oliver’s pumpkin soup ahead of time. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and it can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
What Type Of Pumpkin Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Soup Recipe?
Jamie Oliver’s pumpkin soup can be made with any type of pumpkin, though varieties like sugar pumpkin, butternut squash, or kabocha squash are often preferred for their sweetness and smooth texture.
How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Pumpkin Soup Spicier?
To add heat to Jamie Oliver’s pumpkin soup, consider incorporating spices like chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or a small amount of fresh chili. You can also add ginger or curry powder for an extra kick.
Can I Use Canned Pumpkin For Jamie Oliver’s Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh pumpkin with canned pumpkin puree for a quicker option. However, fresh pumpkin provides a more robust flavor and texture. If using canned, ensure it is 100% pure pumpkin, without added sugar or spices.
What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Pumpkin Soup?
Jamie Oliver’s pumpkin soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Is Jamie Oliver’s Pumpkin Soup Recipe Vegan?
Jamie Oliver’s original pumpkin soup recipe can be made vegan by omitting cream or replacing it with coconut milk. Ensure that the stock used is vegetable-based and that no butter is added.
How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Pumpkin Soup Creamier?
To make the soup creamier, you can add heavy cream, coconut milk, or cashew cream. Alternatively, blending the soup thoroughly will also help achieve a smooth and velvety texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To Jamie Oliver’s Pumpkin Soup?
Yes, you can customize Jamie Oliver’s pumpkin soup by adding other vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips. These vegetables will blend well with the pumpkin and enhance the flavor of the soup.