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Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe

I absolutely love this Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe because it blends cozy fall flavors with a vibrant twist of curry and coconut. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug, and it’s perfect for chilly evenings when you want something both comforting and a little exotic. What really makes this recipe shine is how effortlessly the pumpkin sweetness pairs with the creamy coconut milk and just the right kick from red curry paste.

When I first tried this soup, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together into something so rich and satisfying. You’ll find that it’s incredibly forgiving too — perfect if you want to tweak the spice levels or add your favorite greens. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just meal prepping for the week, this Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe is a total winner that I guarantee you’ll go back to again and again.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: Uses simple pantry staples and straightforward steps that anyone can follow.
  • Versatile Flavor Profile: Balances sweetness, creaminess, and spice for a complex but approachable taste.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully without losing flavor.
  • Perfect for Any Season: Cozy enough for fall but light and fresh thanks to the lime leaves and ginger.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients work beautifully together to create a soup that’s rich and layered without being heavy. Keep an eye out for quality coconut milk and fresh ginger to really lift the flavors.

  • Coconut oil: Adds a hint of tropical flavor and helps sauté the aromatics beautifully.
  • Large onion: Provides a sweet, savory base that softens into deliciousness as it cooks.
  • Garlic cloves: I like adding whole cloves because the blender breaks them down smoothly without any harsh bites.
  • Lime leaves (or lemongrass): Adds a subtle citrusy aroma that brightens the soup — don’t skip if you can find them!
  • Red curry paste: The star spice that delivers warmth and that signature curry flavor.
  • Grated ginger: Fresh ginger adds a zesty zing that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin.
  • Roasted pumpkin or butternut squash: Roasting brings out nutty sweetness and a velvety texture perfect for blending.
  • Coconut milk (light or full fat): Brings creaminess that makes the soup luscious and satisfying.
  • Vegetable broth: Keeps the soup light yet flavorful, ensuring the pumpkin and curry shine.
  • Maple syrup: Just a touch to enhance the natural sweetness of the pumpkin.
  • Cayenne pepper: Adds a gentle heat that wakes up your taste buds without overpowering.
  • Sea salt and fresh black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
  • Sauteed kale or greens (optional): Toss in for extra texture and nutrients—you can’t go wrong.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love how flexible this Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe is, and you’ll find plenty of ways to make it your own. Whether you want it milder for little ones or with extra heat, or even vegan and gluten-free, it’s easy to adapt.

  • Milder Version: I’ve toned down the red curry paste for family dinners, adding a splash of coconut milk at the end to mellow the heat.
  • Spicy Kick: For when I need a little extra zip, I toss in a minced chili or extra cayenne. It really wakes up the flavors!
  • Vegetable Boost: Sometimes I stir in sautéed kale or spinach at the end for a nutrient punch without changing the taste too much.
  • No Lime Leaves: If you can’t find them, lemongrass or a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving captures that brightness.

How to Make Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics Till They Sing

Start by warming coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and let it cook slowly until it’s tender and translucent—usually around 5 to 7 minutes. This step is crucial because it builds that sweet, savory base that the curry and pumpkin will nestle into. Then add the whole garlic cloves, lime leaves, red curry paste, and grated ginger, cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes until you can smell the spices blooming—this is when the magic starts unfolding.

Step 2: Add Roasted Pumpkin and Build Flavor Layers

Stir in your roasted pumpkin or butternut squash pieces, breaking apart any large chunks gently with your spoon. Let everything mingle on the heat for a few minutes to deepen the flavors. Then, before anything starts sticking to the pot, pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth. Add a drizzle of maple syrup and a pinch of cayenne pepper to balance sweetness and heat. Cover the pot, turn down to a simmer, and let it all come together for around 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Blend It Up and Season to Perfection

Once your soup has simmered and the pumpkin is perfectly soft, fish out the lime leaves and transfer the soup to a high-speed blender. If your pot is large, do this in batches to avoid spills. Blend everything until silky smooth—I love this part because you really see how the ingredients transform into a beautiful, creamy soup. Taste it and tweak the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more cayenne if you want that extra punch.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle your coconut curry pumpkin soup into bowls, swirl some extra coconut milk on top for a pretty finish, and sprinkle a little cayenne if you want. I sometimes add sautéed kale on the side or right into the bowls for added color and texture. It’s a feast for the eyes and the soul.

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Pro Tips for Making Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe

  • Roast Your Pumpkin Well: I discovered that roasting pumpkin first (instead of boiling) brings out its natural sugars and gives your soup a richer flavor.
  • Use Whole Garlic Cloves: Adding the garlic whole and blending it in avoids any bitter or raw garlic taste—a trick I learned that works wonders.
  • Control Your Spice Level: Start with the lower amount of red curry paste; you can always add more after blending if you want a bigger kick.
  • Don’t Skip the Lime Leaves: They add that subtle citrus note that transforms this from ordinary to extraordinary—if you can find them, use them!

How to Serve Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with creamy orange pumpkin soup is shown from above. The soup has swirled white cream on top, creating a circular pattern with some drops scattered around. Small green herb pieces and pumpkin seeds are sprinkled over the soup, adding texture. A gold spoon is placed inside the bowl, partially submerged in the soup near the bottom left edge. The bowl sits on a beige cloth, with small orange pumpkins and white marbled surfaces visible around it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping this soup with a swirl of extra coconut milk for creaminess and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a little heat. Toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped fresh cilantro add a lovely crunch and freshness — you’ll find these simple touches really elevate the dish.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs so well with warm crusty bread or garlic naan — perfect for soaking up every last bit. Sometimes I serve it alongside a fresh green salad or lightly sautéed greens, which balance the creamy spices nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For special dinners, I like serving this Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe in small, rustic bowls with a dollop of coconut yogurt and a drizzle of chili oil for that contrast of cool and spicy. Adding edible flowers or microgreens on top makes the presentation pop and impresses guests without much extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. I’ve noticed the flavors meld even more overnight, so it actually tastes better the next day. Just give it a good stir before reheating, as some ingredients tend to settle.

Freezing

Freezing this soup works really well if you want to prep in advance. I portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip bags, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stove to keep its creamy texture.

Reheating

I always reheat gently over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or separating. Adding a splash of coconut milk during reheating freshens up the creaminess, especially if the soup thickened up in the fridge.

FAQs

  1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of roasted for this soup?

    Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin, but roasting it first really enhances the sweetness and texture. If you use raw pumpkin, you’ll want to cook it longer in the soup until it’s soft, which can affect the flavor and consistency.

  2. Is this Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe vegan and gluten-free?

    Absolutely! This recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as you use vegetable broth that’s free of gluten. It’s a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions.

  3. How spicy is the soup, and can I adjust it?

    The heat level is moderate because of the red curry paste and cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust it by adding less curry paste or omitting the cayenne. Add spice gradually and taste as you go to get it just right.

  4. What’s the best way to store leftovers?

    Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well in portioned containers, so you can enjoy this soup whenever you want.

  5. Can I substitute the pumpkin with butternut squash?

    Definitely! Butternut squash works just as well and offers a similar sweet, creamy texture. Use it in the same way as pumpkin for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe has become my go-to comfort food for cool evenings and casual gatherings alike. It’s the kind of recipe I recommend to friends when they want something easy but impressive, and it never lets me down. Give it a try—you’ll love how it fills your kitchen with warm, inviting aromas and how every spoonful balances rich creaminess with fresh, vibrant spices. Trust me, once you make it, this soup is going to be a regular in your rotation too.

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Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 72 reviews
  • Author: Jaden
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Thai-inspired
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This creamy and aromatic Coconut Curry Pumpkin Soup combines the sweet earthiness of roasted pumpkin with the rich flavors of red curry paste, coconut milk, and fragrant lime leaves. Perfect as a comforting fall dish, it’s both nourishing and flavorful, finished with a hint of cayenne and a touch of maple syrup for balanced heat and sweetness.


Ingredients

Base Ingredients

  • 2-3 tablespoons coconut oil
  • 1 large onion, coarsely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves (whole)
  • 3 lime leaves (or substitute with lemongrass or omit)
  • 2 tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1-2 teaspoons grated ginger

Pumpkin and Liquids

  • 3½ cups roasted pumpkin or butternut squash, skin and seeds removed
  • 1 can coconut milk (light or full fat)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth

Seasonings and Garnishes

  • Maple syrup, for drizzling
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • Sea salt and fresh black pepper, to taste
  • Sauteed kale or other greens (optional)


Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the coconut oil. Add the chopped onion and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the whole garlic cloves, lime leaves, red curry paste, and grated ginger. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add Pumpkin and Simmer: Stir in the roasted pumpkin, breaking up any large pieces with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook for a few minutes, then add the coconut milk and vegetable broth before the mixture starts to stick to the pot’s bottom. Add the maple syrup and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Blend the Soup: Remove and discard the lime leaves. Transfer the soup in batches to a high-speed blender and puree until smooth and creamy. Return to the pot and taste; adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more cayenne if desired.
  4. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, drizzle with extra coconut milk and sprinkle additional cayenne pepper if preferred. Optionally, top with sautéed kale or greens to add texture and nutrients.

Notes

  • To roast the pumpkin: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a whole pumpkin in the oven for 15-20 minutes to soften slightly. When cool enough to handle, cut into quarters, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast for another 35-50 minutes until the flesh is very soft. Let cool, then scoop out seeds and peel. Scrape flesh away from skin and use for the soup.
  • You can use either light or full-fat coconut milk based on preference.
  • The lime leaves can be substituted with lemongrass or omitted if unavailable, but they add a nice citrusy aroma.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
  • Roasted pumpkin can be prepared a day ahead for convenience.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 420mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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