※ Pumpkin Soup

If I have have the time I roast the pumpkin in the oven for 40 minutes or so at 160 degrees, gives the soup a new dimension and richness of flavour.  If doing this I also roast the garlic cloves whole.

INGREDIENTS

* 2 tbs olive oil

* 1 onion, finely chopped

* 1 leek, white part only, finely sliced

* 4 garlic cloves, crushed

* 1/2 tsp ground coriander

* 1 tsp ground cumin

* 1/2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg

* 1kg peeled pumpkin, diced

* 1 large potato, peeled, diced

* 1L chicken or vegetable stock

* 1/2 cup (125ml) thin cream

METHOD

Heat oil in a large saucepan over low heat, add onion and leek and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened but not coloured. Add garlic and spices and cook, stirring, for 30 seconds. Add pumpkin, potato and stock and bring to the boil. Turn heat to low, cover and simmer for 30 minutes. Allow to cool slightly, then blend in batches.

Return soup to pan, stir through cream and reheat gently. Season and add a little more nutmeg if desired. 

Serve with warm crusty bread & butter.