Pumpkin Cream Soup with Smoked Meat and Chili

This enchanting pumpkin cream soup, enriched with smoked meat and a touch of chili, is a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. The creamy texture of the melted cheese complements the sweet and savory flavors of the pumpkin and vegetables. A hint of spice from fresh chili elevates the soup, making it delightfully warming and robust. With a medley of carrots, potatoes, and fragrant dill, each spoonful is a burst of wholesome flavors. The addition of smoked meat provides a hearty element, balancing the creaminess of the soup. The recipe calls for easily accessible ingredients, making it an excellent choice for any home cook. It’s ready in less than an hour, making it a go-to for a quick but satisfying meal. Garnishing with greenery not only adds color but also an extra layer of freshness. This soup can be the star of your meal or a cozy starter for a grand feast.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

Small-sized pumpkin
5-6 medium potatoes
3 medium carrots
Bunch of dill
1 package melted cheese
1 fresh chili pepper
Large onion
100 g smoked meat

Spices:

Salt
Your favorite spices to taste

Preparation Time

50 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Start by peeling and removing seeds from the pumpkin. Peel the potatoes, clean the carrots, and coarsely chop the onion.
Chop all the vegetables into similar sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Place all the vegetables in a pot and cover with water, just enough to keep the top vegetables above the waterline.
Add salt and your preferred spices for flavor. Remember, spices enhance the richness of the soup.
Cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer on low heat until the vegetables are tender and soft.
While the vegetables are cooking, slice the smoked meat and onions. Sauté them in a pan until they are golden brown and aromatic.
Once the vegetables have softened, add the melted cheese into the mix. This will enrich the soup’s texture.
Finely chop the fresh chili pepper and add it to the pot for a spicy kick.
Using a blender, puree the contents of the pot until smooth and creamy. This step creates the classic creaminess of the soup.
Serve the soup into bowls, and top each serving with a generous spoonful of the sautéed smoked meat and onions.
Finish with a sprinkle of dill or your choice of fresh herbs for garnish.
Enjoy the fragrant, flavorful dish, perfect for a cozy night in!

Tips

For a lighter version, substitute melted cheese with low-fat cream.
Add more chili if you prefer a spicier soup.
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to reduce cleanup.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 10g
Fats: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Variations

For a vegetarian option, skip the smoked meat and use vegetable broth for added flavor.
You can replace dill with basil or parsley for a different herbal note.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast for a more filling meal.
Top with a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Serve as a starter, followed by a light autumn salad.

Best Places

The Soup Kitchen - Known for its cozy setting and wide variety of homemade soups. Location: 123 Market St, San Francisco, USA.
Cafe de Flore - Offers classic French cuisine with a diverse soup selection. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
Humus & Friends - Specializes in Mediterranean flavors and organic ingredients. Location: Herengracht 234, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Borsch & Fish - Features Ukrainian specialties including a memorable borsch. Location: Arbat St 12, Moscow, Russia.
Soup Brothers - A beloved local spot for heartwarming and innovative soups. Location: 209 Broadway, Milwaukee, USA.
La Soupe Populaire - Offers a variety of gourmet soups in a stylish environment. Location: Auguststraße 51, Berlin, Germany.
Stockpot - Cozy spot with a focus on healthy and affordable soups. Location: Old Compton St, Soho, London, UK.
Pale Blue Door - An artistic, pop-up dining experience with unique menu offerings. Location: Various locations, Mexico City, Mexico.
Soupe et Vous - A small, friendly eatery with an emphasis on seasonal produce. Location: Rue du Midi 36, Brussels, Belgium.
Slurp Soup Cafe - Known for quick service and flavorful, hearty soups. Location: Little Collins St, Melbourne, Australia.