Pumpkin Spice Soup

Pumpkin, pumpkin, pumpkin...I'm so excited for all things pumpkin!  I attempted a new soup that I'm now calling Pumpkin Spice.  Although I'm the only person whose tasted it, I'm going to call it a success!  After looking up dozens of different recipes I decided to take something from each one.

I started by cutting up a small pumpkin and scooping out all the seeds (which I saved and baked later). Then I cut the pumpkin into quarters and sprinkled olive oil, salt, pepper and all-spice. Baking takes at least an hour.

I sauteed a whole yellow onion, garlic and ginger in olive oil for about five minutes.

Next I mixed the pumpkin and onions together and added about 2 cups of water along with more all-spice, salt, pepper and a little cinnamon. Once the mixture started to bubble, I let it simmer for another 20 minutes. And lastly, I threw it all in the blender for a smooth, puree texture.

I may have used a little too much ginger, because this soup is real spicy. It hits you right at the back of the throat. I added a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and it was yummy!

Need a little spice?

Ahh fall! One of the few season's I haven't experienced living in Phoenix for most of my life. Here in Denver, the colors are bright, the leaves are falling and spicy micro brews are filling store shelves. I'm also in the mood for chicken pot pie, soup, mac and cheese and maybe even meatloaf. Here are two seasonal - fall beers I recently tried.

Autumn Ale, Breckenridge Brewery
The old style ale is as cozy as it sounds. Warm, nutty and brewed with hints of chocolate, which makes me love it even more. Only available in September and October, so hurry up and grab a six pack folks.
http://www.breckbrew.com/beer/autumnaleoktoberfest.html

Harvest Moon, Blue Moon Brewing
Clove, nutmeg and allspice. Sounds just like a pumpkin pie. Though it doesn't really taste like pumpkin, it's a soothing flavor with the perfect amount of spice. Not too sweet and not too spicy. Available through November.
http://www.bluemoonbrewingcompany.com/

Happy fall!

I'm attempting to make a pumpkin ginger soup this week, stand by for how it turns out.