Imagine a bowl of velvety goodness that warms your soul and tantalizes your taste buds—welcome to Chipotle Roasted Pumpkin Chowder! This delightful American dish combines the earthy sweetness of roasted pumpkin with the smoky kick of chipotle peppers, creating a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Perfect for cozy evenings or gatherings with friends, this chowder is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Ready to elevate your culinary skills and impress your loved ones? Read on for the full recipe and tips to master this comforting chowder!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium pumpkin, roasted and pureed
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the pumpkin in half, remove seeds, and brush with olive oil. Place cut-side down on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes until tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Allow the roasted pumpkin to cool slightly. Scoop out the flesh and puree in a food processor or blender until smooth. Set aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chipotle peppers, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in vegetable broth and coconut milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the roasted pumpkin puree to the pot, whisking until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer the chowder for 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- If the chowder is too thick, add additional vegetable broth to reach desired consistency.
- Ladle the chowder into serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
- Serve hot, optionally with crusty bread or croutons on the side.
Tips
- Choosing the Pumpkin: Opt for a medium-sized sugar pumpkin for the best flavor and texture. Avoid larger carving pumpkins, as they can be watery and bland.
- Roasting Technique: To enhance the sweetness of the pumpkin, roast it until it's deeply caramelized. This will add a rich depth to your chowder.
- Adjusting Spice Levels: If you're sensitive to heat, start with just one chipotle pepper and gradually add more to taste. The adobo sauce can also add significant flavor, so use it wisely!
- Blending for Smoothness: For an ultra-smooth chowder, blend the pumpkin puree until completely free of lumps. A high-speed blender or food processor works best for this.
- Customizing Consistency: If you prefer a creamier chowder, use full-fat coconut milk. For a lighter version, opt for light coconut milk or even unsweetened almond milk.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your chowder with crusty bread or homemade croutons for a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy texture.
- Garnishing: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor, but feel free to experiment with other toppings like roasted pumpkin seeds or a swirl of coconut cream for added richness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 0mg
