Kolokythósoupa Greek Pumpkin Soup Recipes

KOLOKYTHóSOUPA (GREEK PUMPKIN SOUP)

Steps:

• In a large pot, heat olive oil and fry sliced onions and leek until glassy.
• Add pumpkin cubes, continue frying for 2-3 minutes, add salt, pepper and spices and again continue frying for 1-2 minutes.
• Add Ouzo and some stock or water just so the vegetables don't burn, and simmer until vegetables are tender, about 30-40 minutes.
• Remove from stove and puree the vegetables, then add the rest of the water or stock and heat near boiling point, stirring constantly.
• Add yoghurt, stirring, heat through (don't boil!) and add more salt and pepper to taste, if necessary.
• For garnish fry the red onion slices with some olive oil until glassy.
• Serve soup with fried onions and chopped parsley.

CHILLED PUMPKIN SOUP

Steps:

• Peel the pumpkin, remove the seeds and then cut the flesh into 2.5 cm/1 inch cubes.
• Melt the butter or margarine in a large, heavy-based saucepan. Add the onion & garlic and fry over a low heat until soft but not coloured.
• Add the pumpkin and toss with the onion for 2-3 minutes.
• Add the stock and bring to the boil over a medium heat. Season to taste with salt and pepper and add the ginger, lemon juice, strips or orange rind, if using, and bay leaves or bouquet garni. Cover and simmer over a low heat for about 20 minutes, until the pumpkin is tender.
• Discard the orange rind, if using, and the bay leaves or bouquet garni. Cool the soup slightly, then press through a strainer or process in a food processor until smooth. Pour into a clean saucepan.
• Add the milk and reheat gently. Adjust the seasoning. Garnish with a swirl of cream, natural yoghurt or fromage frais and snipped chives, and serve.

SPICY GREEK PUMPKIN SOUP

Steps:

• Cut pumpkin into even sized chunks.
• Heat oil, cook leeks and garlic until softened.
• Add ginger and cumin, stir for another minute.
• Add pumpkin chunks and stock, season with salt and pepper.
• Bring to boil then simmer for 30 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
• Process soup in blender or with immersion blender.
• Reheat gently, ladle into 4 bowls.
• Swirl a Tbs of Greek yogurt into each bowl, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.