Cozy Up with Delicious Pumpkin Soup

​As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and gold and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of pumpkin soup to usher in the fall season. This comforting dish not only warms the soul but is also incredibly easy to make—especially when you have quality ingredients at your fingertips. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful pumpkin soup recipe that features Watkins products, known for their natural ingredients and rich flavors.

Why Choose Watkins?Watkins has been a trusted name in kitchens for over 150 years, offering a wide range of spices, extracts, and other cooking essentials. Their commitment to quality means you can elevate your dishes without the worry of artificial ingredients. Whether you’re using their organic pumpkin pie spice or flavorful broth, you can taste the difference.
Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin SoupIngredients

• 1 tablespoon Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups pumpkin puree (canned or fresh)
• 3 cups Watkins Chicken Soup & Gravy Base
• 1 teaspoon Watkins Organic Pumpkin Pie Spice
• ½ teaspoon Watkins Sea Salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for a richer taste)
• Fresh parsley or pumpkin seeds for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics
   In a large pot, heat the Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Pumpkin
   Stir in the pumpkin puree, followed by the Watkins Chicken Broth. Mix well to combine.
3. Season the Soup
   Add the Watkins Organic Pumpkin Pie Spice, sea salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Blend for Creaminess
   Using an immersion blender (or a regular blender, in batches), blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
5. Finish with Coconut Milk
   Stir in the coconut milk (or heavy cream) for an extra creamy finish. Let the soup heat through for an additional 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or pumpkin seeds for added crunch. Pair with crusty bread for a hearty meal that’s perfect for those chilly autumn nights.

Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Soup

• Use Fresh Pumpkin: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own pumpkin puree from fresh pumpkins. Just roast them until tender, scoop out the flesh, and blend until smooth.
• Spice it Up: Feel free to customize your soup by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a little heat.
• Make it Vegan: The recipe is easily adaptable! Just ensure you use coconut milk and  Vegetable Broth for a fully plant-based soup.

Conclusion
This creamy pumpkin soup is not only a great way to celebrate the flavors of fall but also showcases how easy it can be to create delicious meals with quality products like those from Watkins. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this soup is sure to impress and satisfy.
So, grab your ingredients, put on your favorite cozy sweater, and enjoy a bowl of this delightful pumpkin soup. Happy cooking!