This spicy chorizo pumpkin soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With rich pumpkin and savory chorizo, it’s the perfect blend of spicy and sweet that keeps you cozy.
I love how easy it is to whip up this soup! Just sauté, blend, and enjoy. Plus, a little extra chorizo on top makes it feel extra fancy. Who can resist that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chorizo: Spicy chorizo is key for flavor! If you’re looking for a milder taste or want a healthier option, turkey or chicken chorizo works well. For a vegetarian twist, use a plant-based sausage or skip the chorizo entirely.
Pumpkin Puree: Canned pumpkin puree is super convenient! If it’s not available, you can roast and blend fresh pumpkin or use butternut squash puree as a substitute for a similar taste.
Cream: Heavy cream adds richness, but coconut milk gives a delightful twist, especially if you want a dairy-free version. You could also use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth, but regular paprika works too. If you’re a spice lover, feel free to increase the cayenne or add some chili flakes for an extra kick!
How Do You Make Sure the Soup is Smooth and Creamy?
Achieving a smooth soup can be tricky, but there are a few simple steps! Start by sautéing your aromatics well, as this builds flavor. When you’re ready to blend, you can use an immersion blender for convenience.
- For using a standard blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches to avoid hot splashes.
- Blend until completely smooth, and if you want it extra creamy, add a bit more cream or coconut milk after blending.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning after blending, as the flavors can change slightly.
Following these tips ensures your soup is silky and flavorful, making it a perfect dish to enjoy any time!
How to Make Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spice)
- 200g spicy chorizo sausage, casing removed and crumbled
- 4 cups pumpkin puree (fresh or canned)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup will take about 10 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking, totaling around 40 minutes. It’s a quick and cozy meal perfect for chilly days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s softened and translucent. This builds a delicious base for your soup!
2. Add Flavor Boosters:
Next, toss in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook this fragrant mixture for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the oil. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
3. Brown the Chorizo:
Now, add the crumbled chorizo to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until the chorizo is browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 5 minutes. This is where the soup gets its hearty kick!
4. Incorporate the Pumpkin:
Stir in the pumpkin puree, mixing it well with the chorizo and spices. This will make the soup rich and creamy. Mix until everything is combined.
5. Mix in the Broth:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer—it should gently bubble!
6. Let It Simmer:
Allow the soup to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. This will help all the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Blend Until Smooth:
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until it’s completely smooth. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer small batches to a blender and blend them until smooth.
8. Creamy Finish:
Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk and heat through. Make sure it doesn’t boil! Taste it and season with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve & Garnish:
Serve the soup hot, drizzling some extra cream on top if you like. You can also garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. If you want a bit more chorizo, feel free to add a spoonful on top!
Enjoy your comforting and delicious Spicy Chorizo Pumpkin Soup! It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends OR enjoying all by yourself!
Can I Substitute the Chorizo in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you want to lower the fat or spice content, try using turkey or chicken chorizo. For a vegetarian option, you can replace it with a plant-based sausage or simply omit it altogether and add more vegetables for texture.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens up too much.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can make the soup a day in advance. Just let it cool completely before refrigerating. When ready to serve, reheat it gently and add a little extra cream for richness if desired.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove.
