Jamaican Pumpkin Soup

Name: Jamaican Pumpkin Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and diced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon ginger, grated; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Pumpkin Soup, especially during the cooler months when I crave something hearty and comforting. The blend of spices combined with the natural sweetness of pumpkin creates a flavor profile that is both rich and invigorating. Our family enjoys gathering in the kitchen, chopping vegetables and sharing stories while the soup simmers on the stove. It truly transforms a simple meal into a cozy experience filled with warmth and affection.

Created by

Violet Hart

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:28:14.129Z

Every time I make Jamaican Pumpkin Soup, I’m reminded of the vibrant colors and lovely spices that fill the kitchen. The unique combination of cinnamon and nutmeg gives this soup a depth that warms you from the inside out. One trick I've learned is to roast the pumpkin beforehand, which intensifies its flavor and sweetness, making each spoonful a delight.

I also love to add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess, which perfectly balances the spices. It’s a small addition that transforms the entire dish. Not only is this soup delicious, but it’s also a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your meals, and I feel great sharing it with my loved ones.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Vibrant and aromatic spices that dance on your palate
Creamy texture complemented by the natural sweetness of pumpkin
A perfect dish for cozy gatherings and celebrations

      

The Magic of Spices

The spices in Jamaican Pumpkin Soup are not just for flavor; they play a vital role in creating its characteristic warmth and richness. Ground cinnamon and nutmeg complement the natural sweetness of the pumpkin, enhancing its flavor profile. When incorporating these spices, be sure to add them early in the cooking process so they have time to bloom, releasing their essential oils and aromas. This method ensures that each spoonful carries the full essence of the spices, making every bite a taste of Jamaica.

Another key ingredient is ginger, which adds a zesty kick to the soup and balances the sweetness of the pumpkin. Fresh ginger is preferable, as it provides a sharper flavor than dried forms. When grating ginger, a microplane works best, allowing you to capture all its juices. Don't shy away from this ingredient, as it lifts and transforms the dish, making it refreshing yet comforting.

Blending Techniques

When it comes to achieving the perfect texture for your soup, blending is crucial. If you're using an immersion blender, keep it submerged well into the soup to avoid splattering and ensure an even consistency. Blend until smooth and creamy, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, if transferring to a countertop blender, fill it only halfway to prevent overflow due to the heat. Blend in batches if necessary, making sure to cover the lid with a kitchen towel for safety.

For a rustic touch, you might leave some small chunks of pumpkin in the soup. If you prefer a truly velvety texture, strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve after blending. This will give the soup an elegant finish and truly highlight the creamy coconut milk once added.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Jamaican Pumpkin Soup

Ingredients

1 medium pumpkin, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon ginger, grated
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Feel free to customize the spices to your taste!

Instructions

Instructions for Jamaican Pumpkin Soup

Prepare the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Pumpkin

Add the diced pumpkin to the pot along with the cinnamon and nutmeg. Stir well to combine the spices with the vegetables.

Simmer the Soup

Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can carefully transfer it to a blender in batches.

Add Coconut Milk

Stir in the coconut milk, season with salt and pepper, and heat through for another 5 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For additional texture, consider adding croutons or roasted seeds as a garnish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Jamaican Pumpkin Soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of vegetable broth or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the soup. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. This method preserves the flavors and ensures the soup remains delicious.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the dining experience, serve Jamaican Pumpkin Soup with slices of crusty bread or homemade cornbread. These accompaniments not only complement the soup's creamy texture but also provide a satisfying crunch. For an extra touch, drizzle a bit of extra coconut milk on top just before serving for a beautiful presentation.

Additionally, you could garnish the soup with toasted pumpkin seeds for added crunch or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to introduce a hint of heat. Including these toppings can elevate your dish from a simple meal to a culinary delight, providing different textures and flavor layers to explore with each spoonful.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh?

Yes, canned pumpkin can be used but adjust the broth accordingly since it's already cooked.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

→ Can this soup be frozen?

Absolutely! Freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use almond milk or regular cream, but it will change the flavor profile.