Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Rosemary Essence

This delightful creamy pumpkin soup, enriched with the subtle essence of rosemary, is a heartwarming dish perfect for cozy evenings. Bursting with the natural sweetness of pumpkin and carrots, it gets a creamy lift from the addition of fresh cream. The rosemary-infused oil adds a unique aromatic touch that elevates its flavor profile. Ideal for serving as a starter or a light main course, it pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a crisp salad. Its vibrant orange color and smooth texture make it a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Although rooted in simple ingredients, the preparation meticulously brings out the best in each element. This dish promises a comforting experience, marrying the earthy tones of root vegetables with the creaminess of the soup. Perfect for autumn or winter seasons, it's a wonderful way to celebrate the bounty of your garden. The recipe is straightforward, yet sophisticated enough to impress your guests.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

800 g pumpkin
2 large carrots
4 medium potatoes
100 ml fresh cream
Salt
Pepper
Rosemary-infused oil
Water

Preparation Time

Total time: 50 minutes (including preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by peeling the pumpkin and carrots. Slice the carrots very thin and cut the pumpkin into larger chunks. This ensures even roasting and enhances the sweetness of the vegetables.
Marinate for Flavor: Place the sliced vegetables in a baking dish. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, drizzle generously with rosemary-infused oil, and mix well. Allow them to marinate for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors of the herbs.
Roast to Perfection: After marination, preheat your oven to 200°C (around 392°F). Roast the seasoned vegetables for approximately 20 minutes or until they are tender and slightly caramelized.
Boil the Potatoes: While the pumpkin and carrots are roasting, peel and dice the potatoes. Place them in a pot, cover minimally with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are soft.
Drain and Blend: Once the potatoes are done, drain 80% of the water. Add the roasted vegetables to the pot. Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until it reaches a silky, smooth consistency. Adjust the thickness by adding a little more water if necessary.
Add Creamy Richness: Put the pot on low heat and slowly stir in the fresh cream, adjusting the quantity to your preference. If you prefer a creamier and looser soup, add more cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Final Touches: Let the soup simmer gently for a few minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Check one last time for seasoning before serving.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls. Top with Serrano ham and your choice of fresh herbs for a touch of freshness and color.

Tips

Substitute olive oil with rosemary leaves if you do not have rosemary-infused oil.
Potatoes are important for the creamy texture; use a starchy variety for best results.
For a vegetarian version, omit the Serrano ham or replace it with smoked tofu.

Nutritions (per serving)

Calories: 250
Protein: 4g
Fats: 10g
Carbohydrates: 35g

Variations

Vegan Option: Replace fresh cream with coconut cream for a tropical flavor.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a warming heat.
Low-Carb: Swap potatoes with cauliflower to reduce carbohydrates.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of crusty baguette or garlic bread.
Pair with a fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette.
Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch and nutritional value.

Best Places

Soup Kitchen - Known for its artisan soups. Location: 10 Mud Lane, Wellington, New Zealand.
Pumpkin Bistro - Offers seasonal pumpkin dishes. Location: 15 Orange St, Boston, USA.
Herbs & Sprouts - Specializes in organic meals. Location: 42 Lavender Way, London, UK.
Broth & Bowl - Features creative soup recipes. Location: 22 Rue de la Soupe, Paris, France.
Café Rosemary - Known for herbal infusions in dishes. Location: 18 Rosemary Ave, Melbourne, Australia.
The Veggie Table - Perfect for vegetable-based cuisines. Location: 34 Carrot Drive, Toronto, Canada.
Earth’s Bounty - Focuses on homegrown produce. Location: 57 Earth St, Cape Town, South Africa.
Gourmet Garden - Combines global flavors with local ingredients. Location: 26 Herb Blvd, Berlin, Germany.
Farm to Spoon - Collective farm-to-table experience. Location: 109 Sprout Rd, Sydney, Australia.
Savory Soup Bar - Creative twists on traditional soups. Location: 12 Cabbage Crescent, Dublin, Ireland.