Jamaican Pumpkin Soup

Name: Jamaican Pumpkin Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Pumpkin Soup, especially during the cooler months when I crave something comforting and warming. The vibrant colors and the rich flavors combine to create a dish that's both satisfying and nutritious. Each spoonful is like a hug in a bowl, filled with creamy pumpkin goodness accented by spices like ginger and nutmeg. Once I discovered how easy it is to prepare this delightful soup from scratch, I couldn't stop making it for family and friends, who often ask for seconds or thirds!

Created by

Chelsea Payne

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:46:16.337Z

Making Jamaican Pumpkin Soup has become a cherished tradition in my home, particularly as the seasons change. I recall the very first time I prepared it, using a fresh pumpkin from the market. The enchanting aroma of onion, garlic, and spices floated through the house, drawing my family to the kitchen. It's a reminder of how simple ingredients can create such dynamic flavors, making it a weekly favorite.

One thing I've learned is that blending the soup until it's silky smooth is crucial for that luxurious texture everyone raves about. The addition of coconut milk not only enriches the soup but also ties together the flavors beautifully. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasonings before serving - each pumpkin can have its own level of sweetness!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that warms your soul
A burst of flavors from fresh spices
Nutritious and perfect for chilly evenings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star ingredient of this Jamaican Pumpkin Soup is obviously the pumpkin. When selecting a pumpkin, look for one that is firm and heavy for its size, with smooth skin. Varieties like butternut or sugar pumpkin work well too if Jamaican pumpkin is unavailable. The vibrant orange flesh will contribute not only to the soup's stunning color but also to its natural sweetness and creamy texture once blended.

In addition to pumpkin, the blend of fresh aromatics like onion and garlic plays a vital role in building the soup's base flavors. The onion should be sautéed until translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it brings out the sweetness of the onion, enhancing the soup's overall depth. Don't rush this process; a little patience here pays off in flavor.

Blending for Creaminess

Blending the soup until smooth creates that velvety texture that makes this dish so comforting. I typically use an immersion blender for convenience, allowing me to blend directly in the pot, but be cautious; blending too vigorously can splatter hot soup! If you're using a traditional blender, allow the soup to cool slightly before transferring in batches to prevent burns and make sure to not overfill the blender pitcher.

After blending, add the coconut milk, which not only enriches the flavor but also makes the soup luxuriously creamy. If you're looking for a lower-fat option, you can substitute half of the coconut milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk, but keep in mind it may slightly alter the richness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the soup warm, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for a fresh herbal note. To elevate the dish, consider adding a drizzle of coconut milk on top or a squeeze of lime juice for brightness. This small addition can counterbalance the sweetness of the pumpkin and give it a refreshing lift. Pair it with crusty bread or grilled toast for a satisfying meal on a chilly evening.

If you're preparing this soup ahead of time, don't add the coconut milk until just before serving. The soup can be refrigerated for about 3-4 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just reheat gently, stirring in the coconut milk to revive that creamy consistency before serving.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful Jamaican Pumpkin Soup.

Ingredients

1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are measured and ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Jamaican Pumpkin Soup.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Add Pumpkin and Spices

Stir in the cubed pumpkin, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the spices to coat the pumpkin.

Pour in Broth

Add the broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. You can also transfer it in batches to a blender if necessary.

Finish with Coconut Milk

Stir in the coconut milk and heat through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade Jamaican Pumpkin Soup with some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

Always taste your soup during cooking
feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference. Additionally, using fresh pumpkin can greatly enhance the flavor compared to canned options.

Tips on Storage and Reheating

Jamaican Pumpkin Soup is an excellent candidate for batch cooking. After cooking, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. It will last in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup in individual portions for easy reheating. When properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When reheating, do so on low heat to ensure the soup doesn’t scorch. Stir occasionally to maintain a smooth texture. If the soup appears too thick after freezing, mix in a little vegetable or chicken broth during reheating to achieve your desired consistency.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding additional vegetables such as carrots or sweet potatoes, which can enhance both sweetness and nutrition. You can also include a pinch of chili flakes for a spice kick, or swap in fresh herbs like thyme for an aromatic twist. The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility; you can adjust the spices based on your taste preferences.

For a heartier soup, consider adding lentils or beans during the simmering stage. Not only will this increase the nutritional value, but it also transforms the soup into a more robust dish that could easily serve as a meal on its own. Just ensure any added ingredients are cooked through before blending for a uniform texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and ensure your coconut milk is dairy-free.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh salad.