Nothing says comfort quite like a warm bowl of Pumpkin Soup with Sage and Nutmeg. This creamy soup is filled with the rich flavors of fall, combining smooth pumpkin with aromatic sage and a hint of warming nutmeg. It’s a perfect dish for chilly evenings, holiday starters, or anytime you want a hearty yet light meal. The addition of sage adds an earthy depth, while nutmeg lends a warm, subtle sweetness. Let’s dive into this cozy and delicious pumpkin soup!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (for a dairy-free option)
• 1 teaspoon dried sage (or 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
• Fresh sage leaves, for garnish (optional)
• Croutons, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté Onion and Garlic
   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly until fragrant.
2. Add Pumpkin and Broth
   • Stir in the pumpkin puree and vegetable broth. Mix until well combined, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Season the Soup
   • Add the dried sage, ground nutmeg, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to incorporate the spices. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Blend the Soup
   • Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, blending until smooth and returning it to the pot.
5. Add Cream and Finish
   • Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and the maple syrup if using. Let the soup heat through for an additional 5 minutes but do not let it boil.
6. Serve
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh sage leaves and croutons if desired. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Pumpkin: You can use canned pumpkin puree for convenience, but fresh pumpkin that has been roasted and pureed will give the soup a more intense flavor.
• Blending: If blending hot soup in a countertop blender, be sure to work in small batches and leave some room for the steam to escape to avoid splattering.
• Sage: Fresh sage provides a stronger flavor than dried sage. Adjust the amount according to your preference.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Pumpkin Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to add some heat to the soup.
• Apple Pumpkin Soup: Add 1 cup of peeled and diced apples to the pot when sautéing the onion for a touch of sweetness that complements the pumpkin.
• Ginger Pumpkin Soup: Add 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger for a hint of spice that pairs well with the creamy pumpkin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time? A: Yes! This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze pumpkin soup? A: Absolutely. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream? A: Yes, you can use milk, but the soup may be less rich. To thicken it up, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water.

This Pumpkin Soup with Sage and Nutmeg is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that embodies the best of fall and winter flavors. It’s creamy, aromatic, and perfect for cozy nights when you need something warming. Easy to make and full of earthy, comforting flavors, this soup will become a favorite for family meals or festive gatherings. Make a batch, serve it up, and enjoy every spoonful of this delightful, seasonal treat!