Jamaican Pumpkin Soup

Name: Jamaican Pumpkin Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed; 1 cup coconut milk; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme; 1 carrot, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I absolutely love making Jamaican Pumpkin Soup, especially during the cooler months. Its vibrant colors and rich, comforting flavors always bring warmth to my kitchen. Each time I prepare it, I can't help but get excited about the combination of sweet pumpkin, aromatic spices, and creamy coconut milk. The soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it perfect for cozy family dinners. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, which is great for busy evenings when I want something hearty and satisfying without the stress.

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-13T05:31:31.595Z

When I first tasted Jamaican Pumpkin Soup on a trip to the islands, I was blown away by its depth of flavor. It became my mission to recreate that magical bowl at home. I found that roasting the pumpkin before adding it to the pot enhances its sweetness and gives the soup a beautiful depth. Additionally, using fresh thyme instead of dried really elevates the dish, bringing those authentic island vibes right to my kitchen. The first time I served it, my family couldn't get enough!

Another tip I've discovered is to blend the soup until it's completely smooth, resulting in a velvety texture that feels luxurious on the palate. I also appreciate the vibrant colors—it's like a feast for the eyes! Once I added a swirl of coconut cream just before serving, it not only improved the presentation but also perfectly balanced the spices. Each spoonful reminds me of my adventures and transports me back to paradise.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that wraps around your taste buds
Warm spices that create a cozy, inviting atmosphere
Healthful ingredients packed with vitamins and flavor

      

Understanding the Role of Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Jamaican Pumpkin Soup plays a vital role in creating its distinctive flavor profile. The sweet pumpkin serves as the base, infusing the soup with a natural sweetness that balances the savory and spicy notes. Fresh thyme adds an aromatic depth that enhances that warm feeling of comfort. If you're short on time, consider using canned pumpkin purée; just remember to lower the broth slightly since it’s already creamy.

Coconut milk not only contributes to the creamy texture but also adds a rich, tropical flavor that characterizes Caribbean cuisine. I recommend choosing full-fat coconut milk for the best creaminess, but light versions can work if you're looking for a lighter option. If you want to avoid coconut altogether, you could substitute with almond or cashew cream, but it will alter the final taste and texture.

Techniques for Perfecting Your Soup

Roasting the pumpkin beforehand caramelizes its natural sugars, enhancing its flavor immensely. Aim for a golden-brown color after about 20 minutes in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven. If the pumpkin isn’t tender after this time, let it roast a little longer, checking in 5-minute increments. This step makes a significant difference in the overall taste of your soup.

When sautéing the onion and garlic, be careful not to let them brown. The goal is to soften them until they're translucent and fragrant—around 5 minutes should suffice. If you notice them starting to brown, reduce the heat to prevent a burnt taste from developing, which would overpower the lovely sweet and savory balance you want in this soup.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make a delicious Jamaican Pumpkin Soup:

Ingredients

2 cups pumpkin, peeled and cubed
1 cup coconut milk
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
1 carrot, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Have everything prepared? Let’s move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious soup:

Prepare the Pumpkin

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in the oven for 20 minutes until tender.

Sauté the Veggies

In a large pot, heat more olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the roasted pumpkin, carrot, thyme, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.

Blend the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. You may also transfer it in batches to a conventional blender.

Finish with Coconut Milk

Stir in the coconut milk and simmer for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Once you’ve finished, feel free to garnish with a drizzle of coconut cream or fresh herbs!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes before serving. This soup freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch for future meals!

Make-Ahead Tips

This soup is a great make-ahead dish. After blending, allow it to cool and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup in individual portions. Just make sure to leave space in the container for expansion; it can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop for a warm, comforting meal.

If you're making it ahead of time, consider keeping the coconut milk separate until you're ready to serve. This can help maintain that creamy freshness. Stir it in just before reheating the soup, and you’ll enjoy that rich texture every time.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Jamaican Pumpkin Soup with crusty bread or homemade cornbread for a satisfying meal. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds on top adds a delightful crunch and enhances the visual appeal. For a touch of brightness, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice or a few fresh cilantro leaves before serving—this contrast really lifts the flavors.

If you're aiming to make the soup a complete meal, try adding cooked quinoa or brown rice as a garnish. This not only adds texture but also provides additional nutrients and will make your soup heartier, great for chilly nights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! This soup is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk.

→ What can I substitute for pumpkin?

Butternut squash works wonderfully as a substitute for pumpkin in this soup.

→ How long can I store the soup?

You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spinach, sweet potatoes, or any veggies you have on hand.