You can cook the apples whole since you will be straining the end result. For special occasions, use dry sherry or white wine instead of water.
SERVES 6
PREP 20 MIN
COOK 40 MIN
FREEZE UP TO 3 MONTHS
INGREDIENTS:
- 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 7oz (200g) pumpkin flesh, diced
- 2 sharp-tasting apples such as Granny Smith, diced
- ½ cup (150ml) hot water
- 4 cups (1.2 liters) cold vegetable stock or chicken stock
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tsp toasted pumpkin seeds, to garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan, add the onion, and cook very gently, stirring often, for 10 minutes or until soft. Do not let it brown.
- Add the pumpkin and apples and stir to coat well. Pour in the hot water, cover with a lid, and leave on very, very low heat for 30 minutes, stirring from time to time. If the liquid evaporates, pour in a little more hot water. The vegetables and fruit should be very soft at the end of cooking.
- Stir in the stock, then blend the soup in batches. As each batch is done, pour it into a sieve set over a clean saucepan. Press the contents through with the back of a ladle, a wooden spoon, or a pestle.
- When all the soup has been strained, reheat it very gently, then season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Serve garnished with the toasted pumpkin seeds.
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with this Pumpkin and Apple Soup, a heartwarming blend of pumpkin and Granny Smith apples. A touch of buttery richness is followed by the gentle simmering of pumpkin and apples, resulting in tender, flavorful ingredients. The addition of hot water ensures a soft texture as the ingredients meld together over low heat. The velvety mixture is then combined with vegetable or chicken stock, creating a harmonious base for the soup.
The essence of this soup is achieved through careful straining, resulting in a smooth and luxurious consistency. As the strained liquid is reheated, the soup takes on its final form, ready to be seasoned with salt and freshly ground black pepper. The addition of toasted pumpkin seeds not only adds a delightful crunch but also complements the essence of the pumpkin.
Whether enjoyed as a comforting everyday dish or as an elegant choice for special occasions, the Pumpkin and Apple Soup is a testament to the balance of flavors achievable with simple, quality ingredients. Its creamy texture, balanced sweetness, and subtle richness make it a true delight for the senses, capturing the essence of fall in every spoonful.
