Sticking with the theme of warm dishes for cold days, here’s another to warm belly and heart. 💓
The other day at the local farmers market, I found that there wasn’t a whole lot of fresh, local produce happening. I guess there isn’t a whole lot growing on the farms that’s available for market sale. *those greedy farmers are probably keeping a bunch of good stuff for themselves!* (Not likely. 😄 I love all you farmers and what you provide for us!) What I did find was some pickled veggies, sourdough bread, preserves, and meats and cheeses. That got me thinking: preserved veggies is what we used to do a lot of, back in the day! So I decided to keep it simple AND tasty with a batch of what sounded good to me, mixing pumpkin and tomato together!
I also thought to myself, as I had also toyed with the idea of sweet potato purée instead, when I think of tomato soup, I think of Italian herbs. When I think of squash or potato soup, I think of Indian inspired spice. Why not marry the two? I did, and the result I felt was a good harmony.
Pumpkin-tomato Bique for Two
Ingredients:
6 oz canned tomato paste
15 oz canned pumpkin purée
8 oz canned diced tomatoes
2 shallots, chopped
2 garlic cloves, chopped
1/2 Tsp oregano
1/2 Tsp marjoram
1/2 Tsp basil
1/2 Tsp coreander
1/2 Tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 Tsp curry spice
1/4 Tsp turmeric
enough veggie broth and coconut cream *I actually swapped from milk to cream, so it’s not pictured* to get the right consistency
salt and pepper
fresh oregano for garnish if you happen to have
Recipe: sauté your shallots over medium heat with aprx 1/8 Tsp salt and pepper, then add garlic, herbs, and spices and let them warm up for a minute, releasing those deep flavors. Add your paste, purée, and tomatoes, stirring to incorporate. Add another aprx 1/8 s&p. Then began alternating with veggie broth and coconut cream until you get a thick soupy consistency. I used aprx 2 cups of broth and 1/2 cup cream. Cover and let simmer for at least 20 min. Add salt and pepper to your liking.
This goes very well with a nice crusty bread. For the first night, I made grilled cheese. You can use dairy or vegan cheese, this is your life, your show! 💛 (🌱Will post a great homemade vegan cheese.🌱) I hope this soup keeps you warm. Share it with a loved one to stay extra warm. 💞
Enjoy your art and may you live well!
