Pumpkin Vegetable Soup with Chunks

This flavorful pumpkin vegetable soup with chunks is a delightful and hearty dish perfect for any season. Made with fresh and nutritious ingredients like pumpkin, carrots, potatoes, and onions, it offers a comforting and satisfying experience. The unique addition of smoked pork provides a rich, savory taste that complements the creamy processed cheese perfectly. A touch of yellow bell pepper adds a hint of sweetness and color to the dish. Depending on preference, the soup can be made entirely vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding more vegetables. The preparation is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a warm, homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. With a blend of spices, the soup is seasoned to perfection, and the combination of textures from the blended and chunked vegetables provides a delightful mouthfeel. This soup can easily be adapted for different dietary needs and preferences. Enjoy it as a standalone meal or alongside a crusty piece of bread for a complete dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 0.5 kg pumpkin
• 1 small carrot
• 2 medium-sized potatoes
• 1 medium-sized onion
• 100 g smoked pork (or any meat of choice)
• 50 g processed cheese
• 1/2 yellow bell pepper

Spices:

• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Bay leaves, optional

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes (including preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare Vegetables: Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables to ensure they are clean and ready for use.
2. Chop Vegetables: Cut the carrot and potatoes into small cubes for a better texture and quicker cooking.
3. Begin Cooking: Put half of the chopped carrots into a pot with water and simmer on low heat for 5 minutes.
4. Add Potatoes: After 5 minutes, add the chopped potatoes to the pot.
5. Season: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, and a couple of bay leaves, and continue cooking until the vegetables are soft.
6. Remove and Set Aside: Strain the vegetables but keep the cooking water for later; this will be used as a flavorful base for the soup.
7. Prepare Onion and Pepper: Finely dice the remaining onion and yellow bell pepper.
8. Sauté Vegetables: In a pan with a bit of oil, sauté the bell pepper and half of the diced onions until the onions are golden brown.
9. Add Pumpkin: In the reserved vegetable water, add cubed pumpkin, the remaining carrots, and the sautéed onions with bell pepper. Cook until all the vegetables are tender and start to break down.
10. Blend: Use a blender to puree the soup until smooth.
11. Add Cheese: Stir in the processed cheese to the blended soup and heat gently until the cheese melts completely. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
12. Cook Remaining Onions: In a separate pan, fry the rest of the onion in oil over high heat until it turns a nice golden brown.
13. Add Meat: Add the diced smoked pork to the pan with the onions and cook for around 5 minutes until it's slightly crispy.
14. Combine Ingredients: Return the pureed soup to the pot and add the cooked onions and smoked pork. Also, add the previously boiled potatoes and carrots.
15. Mix: Stir everything together thoroughly to combine the flavors.
16. Taste and Adjust: Check seasoning and adjust spices if needed for a balanced flavor.
17. Heat and Serve: Gently reheat the soup before serving to ensure it’s hot and ready for the table.
18. Presentation: Pour the soup into serving bowls, and it’s ready to be enjoyed.
19. Garnish: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra touch of flavor.
20. Bon Appetit: Serve your hearty and delicious soup, wishing your guests "Labu apetīti!"

Tips

• For a vegetarian version, simply omit the smoked pork and add more vegetables or legumes, like chickpeas or lentils.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
• When blending, use a hand blender for easy control and avoid transferring hot liquids between devices.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich flavors of the soup.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 8g
• Fats: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

Variations

• Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a sweeter taste.
• Substitute smoked turkey or tofu for the pork to accommodate different dietary needs.
• Add a splash of cream for a richer consistency, or keep it light with just the processed cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad for a refreshing contrast.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
• Accompany with whole grain bread or garlic croutons for a complementary texture.

Best Places

1. The Soup Kitchen & Deli - Known for its wide variety of soups and fresh deli ingredients. Location: 68 Market St, New York, USA.
2. The Soup Spoon - Specializes in freshly made soups and gourmet bread. Location: 20 Bronx Rd, Sydney, Australia.
3. Soup Chef - Famous for its creamy and delicious soup varieties. Location: 45 King St, Toronto, Canada.
4. La Soupe a L'oignon - Offers a French twist on traditional soups. Location: 12 Rue de la Verre, Paris, France.
5. Stock Pot - Renowned for hearty and nutritious options. Location: 5 Guild St, Glasgow, Scotland.
6. Broth & Co - Features a rotating menu of international soups. Location: 1502 Broadway, Seattle, USA.
7. Deli & Soup House - Offers classic and unique fusion soups. Location: Albertina Passage, Vienna, Austria.
8. Peachy's Café - A quirky café known for its cozy atmosphere and hearty soups. Location: 1025 Folk St, Dublin, Ireland.
9. Supa Bowl - A trendy spot for nourishing and innovative soups. Location: 70 Long St, Cape Town, South Africa.
10. Cafe Soupe - Combines traditional and modern flavors into delightful soups. Location: 30 Euston Rd, London, England.