Chicken and Pumpkin soup

Chicken and Pumpkin Soup Recipe from Fiji

Region / culture: Fiji | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chicken and Pumpkin soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the savory taste of chicken. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal during the colder months.

History

The combination of chicken and pumpkin in a soup is a popular dish in many cultures around the world. Pumpkins have been used in cooking for centuries, and their sweet and earthy flavor pairs well with the rich taste of chicken. This recipe is a modern twist on a classic dish, incorporating coconut cream for added creaminess and flavor.

Ingredients

6 pumpkin tips
4 cups sliced and peeled pumpkin fruit
0.33 cup chopped onions
1 green pepper, sliced (optional)
2 tbsp cooking oil
1 coconut cream
1 kg (2 lb) chicken
4 cups water
3 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
salt to taste
2 tomatoes, chopped

How to prepare

1. Wash the pumpkin, remove the tips, and chop it.
2. Fry the onion in cooking oil until it becomes tender.
3. Cut the chicken into small pieces.
4. Add the cut-up chicken to the onion and cook uncovered for 10 minutes.
5. Add water, lemon juice, and salt to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer covered for at least 15 minutes.
7. Add tomatoes, pumpkin, green pepper, and pumpkin tips. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
8. Stir in the coconut cream. Once the mixture comes to a boil again, remove it from the heat.
9. Serve hot with cooked root crops or breadfruit.

Variations

You can add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.
For a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to chop the pumpkin into small, bite-sized pieces to ensure that it cooks evenly in the soup.

- For a richer flavor, you can roast the pumpkin in the oven before adding it to the soup.

- Adjust the amount of salt and lemon juice to suit your taste preferences.

- Feel free to add other vegetables or herbs to the soup for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with cooked root crops or breadfruit for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich and flavorful broth.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use butternut squash or sweet potatoes in place of pumpkin for a different flavor profile.

- Olive oil can be used in place of cooking oil for a healthier option.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

25g per serving

Fats

15g per serving

Proteins

20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium from the pumpkin and tomatoes.

- Chicken provides a good source of protein and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains coconut cream and chicken, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

This Chicken and Pumpkin soup is a nutritious and filling meal that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a comforting meal.

Summary

Chicken and Pumpkin soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines the sweetness of pumpkin with the savory taste of chicken, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, this soup is a healthy choice for a comforting meal. Serve hot with cooked root crops or breadfruit for a complete and delicious meal. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago when I first stumbled upon it, during a visit to my dear friend Margaret's house. Margaret was known for her culinary prowess, and I always looked forward to our gatherings because I knew I would be treated to some delicious homemade dishes.

On that particular day, Margaret had prepared a warm and comforting chicken and pumpkin soup that left me longing for more. The flavors were unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I was determined to learn how to make it myself. Luckily, Margaret was more than happy to share the recipe with me.

As she guided me through the steps, explaining each ingredient and technique in detail, I couldn't help but marvel at her skill and expertise in the kitchen. She had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through generations. I felt honored to be entrusted with such a treasured family secret.

The first time I attempted to make the soup on my own, I was a bundle of nerves. I followed the recipe to the letter, carefully chopping the vegetables, simmering the chicken, and pureeing the pumpkin until it was silky smooth. The aroma that filled my kitchen as the soup cooked was intoxicating, and I knew I was on the right track.

When I finally sat down to taste the finished dish, I was overcome with a sense of satisfaction. The soup was everything I remembered it to be - rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my own cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I have made countless batches of chicken and pumpkin soup, each one better than the last. I have tweaked the recipe here and there, adding a pinch of this or a dash of that to suit my own taste preferences. But the core of the recipe has remained the same, a testament to the enduring tradition of sharing food and memories with loved ones.

One of my fondest memories of making this soup was when my grandchildren came to visit. They had never tried anything like it before, and I was excited to introduce them to a new culinary experience. As I ladled steaming bowls of soup into their waiting hands, I could see their eyes light up with delight.

"Grandma, this is amazing!" they exclaimed in unison, their faces flushed with excitement. It warmed my heart to see them enjoying something that had brought me so much joy over the years. I knew then that the recipe for chicken and pumpkin soup would continue to be passed down through the generations, a cherished family heirloom in its own right.

As I sit here reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for all the people who have shared their knowledge and love of cooking with me. From Margaret to my own grandmother, each one has played a part in shaping me into the cook I am today. And for that, I am truly thankful.

So the next time you find yourself in need of a warm and comforting meal, why not give this chicken and pumpkin soup a try? Who knows, it may just become a treasured recipe in your own family for years to come.