How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this soup ahead?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Are there spice substitutions?

Yes, feel free to adjust spice levels according to your taste or availability.

How can I make it vegan?

Ensure that the bread used for croutons is vegan or omit the yogurt garnish.

Can I use fresh pumpkin?

Absolutely, just roast and puree the pumpkin in advance.

Moroccan Spiced Pumpkin Soup with Harissa Croutons

Name: Moroccan Spiced Pumpkin Soup with Harissa Croutons
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Soup
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion; 4 garlic cloves; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 2 cups pumpkin puree; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; Salt and pepper; 4 slices crusty bread; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon harissa paste; Salt

A Warm and Flavorful Autumn Soup

Infused with Moroccan spices, this rich and creamy pumpkin soup is complemented by crispy harissa croutons for an exotic touch.

1 h 15 min
4
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion

chopped

4 garlic cloves

minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon ground coriander

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

2 cups pumpkin puree

(homemade or canned)

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup coconut milk

Salt and pepper

to taste

For the Harissa Croutons

4 slices crusty bread

cubed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon harissa paste

Salt

to taste

Preparation

Marinating the Harissa Croutons

Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Combine Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, harissa paste, and a pinch of salt.

Coat Bread Cubes

Toss bread cubes in the mixture until evenly coated.

Preparing the Soup Base

Heat Olive Oil

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Cook Onion

Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.

Add Garlic & Spices

Stir in garlic and all spices; cook until fragrant.

Ensure spices do not burn as they can turn bitter. For an extra kick, adjust the cayenne pepper according to your preference.

Cooking Process

Simmering

Add pumpkin puree and vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then simmer for 30 minutes.

Blending

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.

Finishing

Stir in coconut milk and heat through, adjusting seasoning as needed.

Plating & Serving