Creamy Pumpkin Soup (Vellutata di Zucca) Recipe
Category: Soups & Starters
Serves: 4
This creamy pumpkin soup, known as “Vellutata di Zucca” in Italy, is the perfect comfort food for cool autumn evenings. With its smooth, velvety texture and rich flavor, it’s a delightful choice for a cozy starter or a light main dish. The earthy sweetness of the pumpkin combines beautifully with aromatic leeks and a hint of nutmeg, making this dish both heartwarming and satisfying.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vegetable broth | 800g |
| Fine salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Ground nutmeg | 1 pinch |
| Leeks | 130g |
| Pumpkin | 1 kg |
| Heavy cream (liquid) | 100g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 40g |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~150 |
| Carbohydrates | ~30g |
| Protein | ~2g |
| Fat | ~6g |
| Fiber | ~5g |
| Sodium | ~600mg |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by cleaning the leeks. Slice them into thin rounds, discarding the tough outer layers. Next, peel the pumpkin, remove the seeds, and cut it into small cubes. These two ingredients will form the base of your soup.
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Sauté the Leeks: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced leeks. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant, but do not let them brown.
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Add the Pumpkin: Once the leeks are soft, add the diced pumpkin to the pot. Stir everything together so that the pumpkin and leeks are well combined. The pumpkin should be coated in the olive oil and leeks, which will help enhance the flavors as it cooks.
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Cook the Vegetables: Pour in the vegetable broth to cover the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and easily falls apart when pierced with a fork. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
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Seasoning: Once the pumpkin is cooked through, season the soup with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir to combine and adjust the seasoning to taste. Nutmeg adds a lovely warmth to the soup that complements the sweetness of the pumpkin.
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Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, purée the soup directly in the pot until it becomes smooth and creamy. If you prefer a silkier texture, you can pass the soup through a fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining fibers and create an ultra-smooth consistency.
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Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream, keeping a small portion aside to garnish each bowl. This will give the soup a rich, velvety texture and a touch of indulgence.
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Serve and Garnish: Ladle the creamy pumpkin soup into bowls. Drizzle the remaining cream on top for a beautiful presentation. You can optionally add a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a dash of nutmeg to enhance the flavors further.
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Enjoy: Serve the soup piping hot, paired with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. This comforting soup is perfect for a light dinner or as a first course at a cozy gathering.
Tips for the Perfect Vellutata di Zucca:
- Choose the Right Pumpkin: A sweet variety like Hokkaido or butternut squash works best in this recipe due to its smooth texture and natural sweetness. Avoid using pumpkins with a fibrous texture for a creamier soup.
- Vegetable Broth: For a richer flavor, opt for homemade vegetable broth. If you use store-bought broth, look for low-sodium versions to control the salt level.
- Make it Vegan: To make this soup dairy-free, simply replace the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and skip the cream garnish.
- Add Herbs: Fresh thyme or sage can be added during cooking to enhance the earthy flavors of the soup. Just remember to remove them before blending for a smoother texture.
- Store Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months—just make sure to cool it completely before storing.
This Vellutata di Zucca is a versatile, flavorful soup that celebrates the fall harvest with simple ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a warm starter or a light, wholesome dinner, this creamy pumpkin soup delivers comfort in every spoonful.
