Main Dishes

Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup

Name: Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 200g chorizo, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 400g canned pumpkin puree; 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup cream (optional); Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Recipe Information

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 350
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg

Why Make This Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup

Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup is the perfect comfort food that combines vibrant flavors with comforting textures. The spiciness of chorizo blends beautifully with the creamy, earthy pumpkin puree, making each spoonful a warm hug for your taste buds. This dish not only warms you up during chilly days but also suits festive gatherings with its rich color and inviting aroma. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just under 40 minutes.

How to Make Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
200g chorizo, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
400g canned pumpkin puree
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup cream (optional)
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the diced chorizo and cook until crispy and browned, about 5 minutes. The aroma of the sizzling chorizo will fill your kitchen, making it nearly impossible to resist.
Step 2: Mixing

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. The onion should become translucent and fragrant, complementing the savory chorizo perfectly.
Step 3: Cooking

Stir in the ground cumin and smoked paprika. Cook for another minute until the spices release their aroma. Next, add the pumpkin puree and chicken or vegetable broth; bring to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook for about 15-20 minutes, letting the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Finishing

Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender in batches. Return to heat and season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, stir in the cream for added richness. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

How to Serve Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup

This soup makes a great starter or can stand alone as a hearty main dish. Serve it alongside crusty bread or a fresh, green salad for a complete meal. For a festive touch, consider serving the soup in hollowed-out pumpkin bowls or topping it with a dollop of sour cream and additional cilantro.

How to Store Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

Expert Tips for Perfect Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup

If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or add more pumpkin puree.
Experiment with different types of chorizo, like sweet or spicy, to tailor the heat to your taste.
For a vegan version, substitute the chorizo with a plant-based sausage and use coconut cream instead of regular cream.
Always taste and adjust the seasoning; a bit more salt or pepper can elevate the flavors significantly.
Garnishing with toasted pumpkin seeds in addition to cilantro adds a delightful crunch.

Delicious Variations

Creamy Coconut Chorizo Pumpkin Soup: Replace the cream with coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Vegetable Loaded Pumpkin Soup: Add diced carrots, bell peppers, or even greens like spinach for extra nutrition.
Spicy Black Bean Variation: Stir in a can of drained and rinsed black beans for added protein and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes! You can roast and puree fresh pumpkin for a homemade version, but make sure to cook it until soft.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth, this soup is a great gluten-free option.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.
What can I use instead of chorizo?
For a milder soup, consider using Italian sausage, or for a vegetarian option, try crumbled tempeh sautéed with spices.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add more smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking for that extra kick!

Conclusion

Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup is a delightful blend of robust flavors and creamy textures that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s uncomplicated enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for a special gathering. With its rich aroma and vibrant colors, this soup perfectly embodies comfort. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—you won’t regret it! Enjoy each delicious scoop, and happy cooking!