Spicy chorizo pumpkin soup Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that brings a perfect harmony of bold, smoky spice alongside creamy, comforting pumpkin, you’ve got to try this Spicy chorizo pumpkin soup. This soup is a vibrant celebration of flavors and textures, marrying the rich earthiness of pumpkin with the fiery kick of chorizo and chipotle peppers. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, yet excites your palate with every spoonful. Trust me, once you make this Spicy chorizo pumpkin soup, it’ll quickly become one of your all-time favorites you want to revisit again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each plays a crucial role in crafting the bold and comforting personality of this soup. From spicy chorizo to creamy pumpkin puree, every element adds depth, warmth, and vibrancy to the bowl.

• 1/2 lb chorizo: The star protein that infuses the soup with spicy richness and smoky notes.
• 1 onion: Adds sweetness and a wonderful base flavor when sautéed.
• 4 cloves garlic: Provides a punch of aromatic depth and savory warmth.
• 1 teaspoon cumin: Brings earthy undertones that perfectly complement the pumpkin.
• 1 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, bringing balance to the soup.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and peppery brightness.
• 15 oz broth (chicken or beef): Acts as the flavorful liquid base, enriching the soup.
• 5 chipotle peppers: Deliver smoky, spicy heat that gives this soup its unforgettable kick.
• 2 cups pumpkin puree: Creates creamy texture and sweet earthiness.
• 1/4 cup cream: Adds luxurious creaminess and softens the spice.

How to Make Spicy chorizo pumpkin soup

Step 1: Cook the chorizo

Start by heating the chorizo in your soup pot on medium heat. Let it simmer and release all those amazing spices and oils for about 5 minutes, stirring as it browns. Once cooked, scoop the chorizo into a bowl but don’t throw away that flavorful fat in the pot just yet — you’ll use it to build your soup’s base.

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics

Next, carefully wipe out most of the fat from the pot, leaving a little for flavor. Add chopped onion and sauté until fragrant and translucent — this step lays down the sweet and savory foundation for your soup. Drain any excess fat from the chorizo bowl as it can be quite rich, then combine the chorizo back in with the onions. Toss in the chopped garlic and chipotle peppers for a smoky, spicy boost.

Step 3: Build the soup base

Pour in the broth, then stir in the pumpkin puree and spices like cumin, salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer gently for about 10 minutes to marry the flavors together beautifully. This simmering lets the smoky chorizo and spicy chipotle really infuse the pumpkin for a truly harmonious taste.

Step 4: Finish with cream and serve

To finish, stir in the cream to add a silky richness that mellows the spice without dulling it. Turn off the heat, then ladle your soup into bowls. For the best presentation and texture contrast, add pieces of the cooked chorizo on top along with some freshly chopped green onions for a burst of brightness.

How to Serve Spicy chorizo pumpkin soup

Garnishes

Simple garnishes elevate this soup to something special. Crispy or freshly cooked chorizo pieces add texture and an extra punch of flavor, while chopped green onions bring a fresh crunch and vivid color. You could even add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to layer on creaminess and smoky aroma.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm tortillas to sop up all that luscious, spicy pumpkin broth. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness nicely, offering a refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables or grilled corn with chili lime butter also make fantastic companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or rustic bowls. Swirling cream on top in a decorative pattern or adding a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds can add visual interest and texture. Consider serving alongside small bowls of assorted garnishes so everyone can customize their spicy chorizo pumpkin soup experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Spicy chorizo pumpkin soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the vibrant flavors and creamy texture. Just give it a good stir before reheating, as the cream may separate slightly.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Because it contains cream, gently reheat from frozen to avoid curdling—thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. The rich flavors hold up well, making it perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting and fast.

Reheating

Reheat the soup slowly on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to keep the cream from separating. If it seems too thick after cooling or freezing, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it to your preferred consistency. Fresh garnishes added just before serving will bring back that fresh-made vibrancy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage instead of chorizo?

While chorizo is key for that signature spicy smokiness, you can substitute with another spicy sausage if needed. Just keep in mind it will change the flavor profile, so adjust the seasoning and spice accordingly to maintain the soup’s bold character.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The heat mainly comes from the chipotle peppers and chorizo, which bring a smoky, moderate kick. If you prefer milder soup, reduce the number of chipotle peppers or remove their seeds to tone down the spiciness without losing flavor.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace the chorizo with smoky smoked paprika and use vegetable broth. You can add hearty mushrooms or smoked tofu for texture, capturing some of the original dish’s depth while staying meat-free.

What type of pumpkin puree is best for this soup?

Using canned pumpkin puree is convenient and perfect for this recipe. Make sure it is 100% pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling. If you prefer fresh, roast and puree your own pumpkin for a fresher, slightly sweeter taste that works wonderfully here.

Can I double this recipe for a larger group?

Absolutely! This soup scales easily, just keep the proportions consistent. Use a larger pot and increase simmer time slightly when doubling or tripling the recipe to ensure all the flavors meld beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Spicy chorizo pumpkin soup is such a delightful dish that combines rustic charm with bold, comforting flavors. It’s easy enough to whip up on a weeknight but impressive enough to serve to guests. Once you try this recipe, you’ll understand why it’s become one of my kitchen staples for cozy evenings. Go ahead and dive into a bowl—you won’t regret this warm, spicy, creamy celebration of fall’s best flavors!

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