While sitting at home, watching the snowfall outside, I was wondering what kind of soup I could make to help warm me up and give my immune system a boost. During my search, I came across a delicious pumpkin soup recipe that I decided to try. This steaming soup is packed with all the benefits of pumpkin and spices. It’s interesting to note that ongoing scientific research suggests that a chemical compound found in Asian pumpkins can improve insulin levels and lower blood sugar pressure. This aligns with Chinese tradition, where pumpkin is believed to be especially beneficial for people with diabetes symptoms.
Chinese Medicine Application
This dish is beneficial for individuals with Spleen deficiency or for moisturizing the Lungs and Large Intestine.
Ingredients:
10-12 ounces pumpkin or winter squash (about 2 cups when cubed)
6 whole cloves
2 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken stock
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, I prefer olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 to 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
1 (1 to 2 inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
1/2 cup coconut milk (no guar coconut milk)
A pinch of salt
A pinch of pepper
1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, stems removed and discarded
Directions:
- Seed, peel, and chop the pumpkin into 1-inch cubes.
- Combine the pumpkin, cloves, and stock in a pot. Bring to boil, lower the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add the onion, garlic, and ginger. Cook until the onions are translucent and soft (about 5 minutes).
- When the pumpkin is done, remove the cloves from the broth (they will float on top of the liquid).
- Combine the pumpkin mixture, the onion mixture, and the coconut milk, using a hand blender to whip it into a smooth puree. If you don’t have a hand blender, use a blender or food processor, working in batches if necessary. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle the green cilantro on top of the soup for a flavorful and colorful garnish.
Especially good for:
Eating in the fall and winter, warming cold hands and feet. Also, pumpkin dishes are particularly helpful for people concerned about diabetes, beautifying the skin, constipation, or preventing prostate cancer, atherosclerosis, or gastric ulcers.
Themes and Variations:
Add different vegetables to this soup, such as yam, celery, or carrot, cut into 1-inch pieces; simmer them along with the pumpkin. Other types of milk, if you prefer. Canned pumpkin can work in a pinch if you don’t have fresh pumpkin available.
I hope you enjoy this delicious recipe! Stay healthy, everyone.
Credit: from Ancient Wisdom, Modern Kitchen: by Yuan Wang
