PUMPKIN SOUP Ingredients
300 grams red pumpkin, peeled and cut into 1 inch chunks
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp chopped garlic
2 tbsps sliced leaks
1 medium onion, cut into 1 inch dices
1 sprig of fresh rosemary
Salt to taste
2½ cups vegetable stock
Crushed black peppercorns to taste
¼ tsp smoked paprika powder
Toasted pumpkin seeds for garnish
Bread sticks to serve
Method
1. Heat oil in a non-stick deep pan, add chopped garlic, leaks and sauté for a few seconds.
2. Add onion and sauté till translucent. Add pumpkin and mix well. Separate the leaves of rosemary and add into the pan. Mix well.
3. Add salt and mix well. Add 2 cups vegetable stock and mix well. Let the mixture come to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover and cook for 10-12 minutes or till the pumpkin is tender. Switch the heat off.
4. Blend the pumpkin mixture till smooth. Strain the soup into another pan and place it back on heat.
5. Add remaining stock to adjust the consistency. Mix well.
6. Add crushed black peppercorns and smoked paprika powder. Mix and allow to come to a gentle boil. Switch the heat off.
7. Transfer the soup into a bowl and garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds, crushed black peppercorns and serve hot with bread sticks or pack it in a thermos.