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Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe

Oh, you’ve got to try this Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe—it’s one of those soul-warming dishes that feels like a cozy hug in a bowl. Whenever the fall air gets crisp or you just want something comforting but packed with flavor, this soup is my go-to. The blend of sweet potatoes and pumpkin creates this velvety texture that’s naturally creamy without needing any heavy cream, which I absolutely love for a lighter touch.

What really makes this recipe stand out for me is the zing of fresh ginger paired with warm spices like cinnamon and chili powder—it hits just the right balance between cozy and a little kick. Plus, the tomato paste and a splash of white wine vinegar add layers of depth that keep you coming back for more. Honestly, once you taste this Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe, it’s hard to imagine going back to plain old soup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this soup plays an important role, blending sweetness, spice, and freshness into something truly comforting. When you shop, aim for fresh ginger and vibrant pumpkin puree to really bring out those flavors.

  • Butter: Adds a rich base flavor and helps soften the onions; I always use unsalted so I can control the salt level better.
  • Yellow onion: Provides sweetness and depth when sautéed; dice it finely for even cooking.
  • Garlic: Fresh cloves offer sharper, more complex flavors than pre-minced—always my preference here.
  • Fresh ginger: Gives the soup that bright, warming zing; peeling and grating it finely helps distribute the flavor evenly.
  • Sweet potato: The star of the show—peeling and cutting into uniform ½-inch cubes ensures they cook perfectly and blend smoothly.
  • Tomato paste: Surprising but essential for umami depth; cook it briefly with the onions to mellow its sharpness.
  • Chili powder: Choose mild or spicy based on your heat tolerance—the chili adds a subtle smoky heat that balances the sweetness.
  • Dried oregano: A fragrant herb that layers in earthiness without overpowering.
  • Kosher salt: Fine texture helps season evenly; always taste and adjust at the end.
  • Cumin: Adds warmth and a slight nuttiness; just a touch can transform the flavor profile.
  • Cinnamon: A little goes a long way to add subtle sweetness and warmth.
  • Pumpkin puree: Use canned 100% pumpkin puree—fresh is fine, but canned is convenient and consistent.
  • Vegetable broth: For a vegetarian base; homemade or low-sodium store-bought works well.
  • White wine vinegar: A splash brightens up the flavors and balances sweetness—don’t skip it!
  • Maple syrup (optional): If you want a touch more sweetness, a drizzle of maple syrup enhances the overall flavor beautifully.

Variations

One of the best things about this Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe is how you can tailor it to your taste. I love tweaking it depending on what’s in my pantry or how spicy I’m feeling that day.

  • Make it vegan: Swap butter for coconut oil or olive oil, and double-check your broth is vegetable-based. I’ve made this one vegan multiple times, and it’s just as delicious.
  • Spicy kick: Add cayenne pepper or fresh chopped chili if you like it hotter. When I want that extra heat, I toss in some chili flakes just before serving.
  • Herb swap: Try fresh thyme or rosemary instead of oregano for an herbal twist; rosemary gives it a piney note that’s lovely during the holidays.
  • Texture variation: If you enjoy a chunkier soup, reserve some cooked sweet potato cubes to stir in after blending, which I do when I want a bit more bite.

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics to Build the Flavor Base

Start by melting your butter in a large pot over medium heat—that golden, buttery scent starts everything off right. Toss in the diced onions and gently sweat them until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes—I like stirring frequently so they don’t brown too much. Add your minced garlic and fresh ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt. This step is key because those aromatics soak into the butter, creating a rich foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Add Sweet Potatoes, Tomato Paste, and Spices

Next, throw in the cubed sweet potatoes and stir everything together. Dollop in the tomato paste and sprinkle your chili powder, oregano, salt, cumin, and cinnamon over the mixture. Cook it all for a couple of minutes to toast the tomato paste and spices—this little toasting step amps up the depth and mellows the tomato’s acidity. Keep stirring so nothing sticks or burns; this is where those amazing warm smells start filling your kitchen.

Step 3: Stir in Pumpkin Puree and Broth, Then Simmer

Pour in the pumpkin puree and vegetable broth, stirring until everything’s well combined. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and soft. Occasionally stir so nothing sticks, and try not to rush this stage—slow simmering helps blend the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Blend Until Silky Smooth

Once the veggies are tender, it’s blending time! I use an immersion blender right in the pot for easy cleanup, but if you don’t have one, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender. Puree until silky smooth and creamy—the texture should be just thick enough to coat your spoon. If it’s too thick, just add a splash more broth or water and blend again until you reach your perfect consistency.

Step 5: Brighten the Flavor with Vinegar and Optional Maple Syrup

Finish by stirring in the white wine vinegar—this little splash adds brightness and balances all the sweetness. Taste it and add the optional maple syrup if you want a hint more sweetness. Don’t skip tasting here; adjusting at the end is what makes home-cooked soups shine every time.

How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I’m a huge fan of garnishing this soup with a swirl of creamy coconut yogurt or a drizzle of good olive oil for a shiny finish. Toasted pumpkin seeds sprinkled on top add a crunchy texture that’s irresistible. Fresh chopped parsley or a little cilantro brightens things up visually and flavor-wise—plus, it makes it feel like a restaurant dish, which is always fun for dinner guests.

Side Dishes

Pairing this Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe? I love some crusty bread or warm garlic naan to soak up every last drop. For something lighter, a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette makes a perfect companion. On chillier days, roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple quinoa pilaf round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve served this soup in rustic bread bowls for a fun twist at casual gatherings—your guests will be impressed and happily spoon out the crusty interior with the soup. For special occasions, I like adding a tiny dollop of spiced whipped cream (think cinnamon and nutmeg) on top for a festive flair that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can turn this humble bowl into a centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually let the soup cool completely, then store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. It holds up beautifully and flavors even deepen after a day or two. When reheating, I add a splash of broth to keep it from thickening too much, stirring gently until warmed through.

Freezing

This Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe freezes wonderfully. I portion it into freezer-safe containers and it lasts 3-4 months without losing its flavor or texture. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before warming—freeze in smaller batches so you only defrost what you need.

Reheating

To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring often and adding small amounts of broth if it’s too thick. This method preserves the soup’s beautiful creaminess and makes it taste freshly made, even on day three or four.

FAQs

  1. Can I make this Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe vegan?

    Absolutely! Just replace the butter with olive oil or coconut oil, and make sure to use vegetable broth. The soup will remain creamy and flavorful without any animal products.

  2. How spicy is this soup?

    The chili powder adds warm, gentle heat but isn’t overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the amount to your preference or add cayenne for a hotter kick. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add later as you taste.

  3. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?

    Yes, you can roast fresh pumpkin and blend it, but canned pumpkin puree is convenient and consistent. If using fresh, make sure to cook it well and blend until smooth before adding to the soup.

  4. How long does this soup keep in the fridge?

    Stored properly in an airtight container, this soup keeps well for about 4 days. The flavors actually develop more over time, so leftovers are just as delicious.

  5. Can I add cream or coconut milk?

    Definitely! Adding cream or coconut milk at the end will make the soup even richer and creamier. I sometimes add coconut milk for a dairy-free, silky touch that pairs beautifully with the spices.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe has become a personal favorite that I find myself reaching for when I need comfort food that doesn’t feel heavy. It’s approachable, packed with delicious layers, and perfect for sharing with friends or family on chilly evenings. I really think you’ll enjoy how satisfying this soup is while being surprisingly easy to make—plus, it keeps so well that you can savor it over a few days. Give it a shot and let it become your cozy season staple, just like it did for me!

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Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Ginger and Spices Recipe

This comforting Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin and sweet potatoes with warm spices and a hint of chili for a subtle kick. A perfect blend of creamy texture and warming flavors, it is ideal for chilly days and can be easily customized for spice preference.

  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Soup Base

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced (~1 ¼ cups)
  • 2 teaspoons (~3 cloves) fresh garlic, minced
  • ½ tablespoon fresh ginger, finely minced or grated

Vegetables & Puree

  • 1 ½ pounds sweet potato, peeled and cut into ½ inch cubes (about 5 cups)
  • 1 15 ounce can pumpkin puree

Spices & Flavorings

  • 23 teaspoons chili powder, depending on preferred spice level
  • 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 ¼ teaspoons fine kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Liquids & Finishing Touches

  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and add the diced onion. Cook until the onion is translucent and softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add Spices and Tomato Paste: Stir in the chili powder, dried oregano, salt, cumin, cinnamon, and tomato paste. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to allow the spices to bloom and the tomato paste to slightly caramelize.
  3. Cook Sweet Potatoes: Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them in the spices and aromatics. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
  4. Simmer Soup: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer until the sweet potatoes are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
  5. Add Pumpkin and Blend: Stir in the pumpkin puree until well combined. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup in the pot until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until smooth, then return to the pot.
  6. Adjust Flavor and Heat: Stir in the white wine vinegar and maple syrup (if using) to balance the flavors. Taste and adjust salt or chili powder if needed.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of yogurt if desired.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine.
  • Adjust chili powder quantity to suit your preferred spice level or omit for milder taste.
  • The maple syrup adds a subtle sweetness but can be skipped if you prefer a savory profile.
  • Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: pumpkin soup, sweet potato soup, fall soup, creamy soup, vegetarian soup, spicy pumpkin soup, easy soup recipe

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