Jamaican Pumpkin Soup

Name: Jamaican Pumpkin Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of pumpkin, peeled and cubed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 inch piece of ginger, grated; 1 can (400ml) of coconut milk; 4 cups of vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon of nutmeg; 1 teaspoon of thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon of olive oil; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love Jamaican Pumpkin Soup for its vibrant flavors and warming qualities. The combination of spicy ginger, creamy pumpkin, and coconut milk creates a heavenly dish that’s perfect for any day of the year. I often make it when the weather turns chilly, and the hearty texture is both comforting and filling. The addition of fresh herbs and spices elevates the soup to a whole new level, making it a go-to favorite in my household. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-06T10:34:13.778Z

When I first tried Jamaican Pumpkin Soup, I was struck by how simple ingredients could create such a rich flavor profile. I learned to use fresh, ripe pumpkin for the best taste, and the hint of nutmeg really complements the spice from ginger. Every time I prepare it, I experiment with the spices and herbs to personalize the flavor, which makes it even more special!

Another tip I discovered is to blend the soup until creamy, then add a swirl of coconut milk before serving. This not only enhances the texture but also adds a creaminess that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. It's a perfect dish for gatherings!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously spicy yet creamy texture.
Easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Packed with nutrients from fresh ingredients.

      

Understanding Pumpkin in Soup

Pumpkin is a star ingredient in this soup, providing a naturally sweet flavor and creamy texture when perfectly cooked. Choose a fresh, ripe pumpkin—look for a firm skin with a dull finish rather than shiny, which indicates it hasn't fully matured. The sweetness develops as the pumpkin cooks, creating a harmonious balance with the spices. Alternatively, for convenience, you can use canned pumpkin puree; just reduce the amount of vegetable broth to achieve the desired consistency.

When cutting your pumpkin, ensure you use a sharp knife and remove the seeds and stringy fibers thoroughly. This not only improves the texture of your soup but also enhances the flavor by eliminating any bitterness from the seeds. If you have leftover pumpkin, consider roasting it for salads, or blending it into smoothies for extra nutrition in your meals.

Perfecting Your Soup

Using an immersion blender can save you time and effort while blending the soup. It's easier to handle than transferring batches to a countertop blender, and it minimizes mess. Blend the soup until it reaches a velvety smooth consistency, which is crucial for the creamy experience you want to achieve. If the soup seems too thick, simply add a bit more vegetable broth or coconut milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Seasoning plays a vital role in enhancing the flavors of this soup. Taste your mixture after adding the coconut milk and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly. Remember that each pumpkin has a different sweetness level, so don't shy away from adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you'd like an extra kick. Always start with a small amount and adjust to prevent overwhelming the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

2 cups of pumpkin, peeled and cubed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 inch piece of ginger, grated
1 can (400ml) of coconut milk
4 cups of vegetable broth
1 teaspoon of nutmeg
1 teaspoon of thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish

With all these ingredients on hand, you're ready to dive into making this delicious soup!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a delicious Jamaican Pumpkin Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Pumpkin

Stir in the cubed pumpkin along with the nutmeg and thyme. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the pumpkin to absorb the flavors.

Combine with Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the pumpkin is tender, about 20 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, carefully transfer it in batches to a blender, then return it to the pot.

Finish with Coconut Milk

Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.

Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley. Enjoy your hearty Jamaican Pumpkin Soup!

Now that you’ve prepared the soup, you can enjoy a taste of Jamaica right in your home!

Pro Tips

For an enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of lime juice before serving to brighten the soup. You can also add cooked beans for extra protein.

Ingredient Substitutions

Coconut milk is a key element that adds creaminess, but if you're looking for a lighter version, you can use almond or cashew milk. However, be mindful that it may alter the flavor profile slightly—consider adding a splash of lime juice or a dash of toasted coconut to maintain that tropical essence. For a higher protein content, try adding lentils to the soup during the simmer stage, ensuring they are fully cooked by the time you blend the mixture.

If you’re short on fresh herbs, dried thyme can replace fresh thyme in a pinch—just use about one-third of the amount, as dried herbs are more potent. Similarly, fresh ginger can be substituted with ground ginger; this will change the texture but keep the spicy flavor intact. Adjust the quantities to your taste and preferences.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is satisfying on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crusty piece of bread or a side salad for a complete meal. I love topping mine with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream, which adds an extra creamy texture and tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the spices. You can also sprinkle some pumpkin seeds or crushed nuts over the top for added crunch and nutrients.

For an elegant presentation, consider serving the soup in hollowed-out mini pumpkins. This not only makes for a stunning table display but also keeps the soup warm for longer periods. Make sure to keep the soup at a low simmer until ready to serve, and enjoy this fall-inspired dish that invites warmth and comfort into every bowl.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

→ Is there a way to make it spicier?

Absolutely! You can add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup for some extra heat.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

→ What can I serve with Jamaican Pumpkin Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.