How to Make Authentic Thai Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk
Indulge in the exotic flavors of Thailand with this velvety pumpkin soup. Infused with lemongrass, ginger, and a hint of red curry paste, this comforting dish is elevated by the luxurious addition of coconut milk. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a unique starter for your next dinner party.
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Recipe Details
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Servings
6
Difficulty
Intermediate
Simple Summary
This creamy Thai Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk is a comforting blend of sweet pumpkin, aromatic spices, and rich coconut milk, offering a perfect balance of flavors that transport you to the streets of Thailand.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 stalks lemongrass, white part only, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
- 4 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed (about 1 medium pumpkin)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons fish sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro and pumpkin seeds for garnish
Instructions
-
Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, ginger, and lemongrass. Sauté for 5 minutes until fragrant and onions are translucent.
-
Stir in the Thai red curry paste and cook for another minute to release the flavors.
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Add the cubed pumpkin to the pot and stir to coat with the spices.
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Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender when pierced with a fork.
-
Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Using an immersion blender or working in batches with a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
-
Return the soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the coconut milk, fish sauce, and brown sugar. Simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
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Add lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds.
Chef's Notes
- For a smoother soup, strain through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
- To make this soup vegan, use soy sauce instead of fish sauce.
- If you can't find fresh pumpkin, butternut squash makes an excellent substitute.
- The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- For extra heat, add a Thai chili or a dash of sriracha sauce when serving.
Nutritional Info
Per serving (approximate):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 18g (mostly healthy fats from coconut)
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of jasmine rice or crusty bread for dipping.
- Pair with a crisp Thai-inspired salad for a complete meal.
- For an elegant presentation, swirl extra coconut milk on top and sprinkle with finely chopped kaffir lime leaves.
- This soup makes a great starter for a Thai-themed dinner party or a cozy main course on a chilly evening.
- Complement the flavors with a cold Thai iced tea or a light lemongrass-infused cocktail.