Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
190 | 12g | 5g | 18g |
sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
5g | 4g | 3g | 0.6g |
Calabazas Soup: A Comforting Blend of Vegetables and Spices
When I stumbled upon the idea of crafting Calabazas Soup, I knew it was destined to become a staple in my kitchen. Growing up in the sunny valleys of California, I’ve always been drawn to recipes that blend health-consciousness with comfort—Calabazas Soup does just that. This vegetable-based delight brings together the hearty, wholesome ingredients that remind me of family gatherings and the classic American comfort food that I cherish.
A Nutritionally Rich Bowl
One of the reasons I absolutely love Calabazas Soup is its impressive nutritional profile. Packed with the goodness of calabaza squash, this soup is not only rich in vitamins A and C but also offers a good amount of fiber, making it a healthy addition to any meal. The addition of carrots and potatoes adds further nutritional benefits, as both are great sources of essential vitamins and minerals. The blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon not only enhances the flavor but also brings anti-inflammatory benefits. Coconut milk adds a creamy texture while providing healthy fats, and a splash of lime juice gives it a refreshing, zesty finish.
Perfect for Any Occasion
The versatility of Calabazas Soup is another aspect that makes it a favorite in my household. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crusty bread for a simple, hearty meal. For an extra touch of West Coast flair, you might want to enjoy it alongside an avocado toast or a light, green salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette. Those who enjoy Mexican cuisine might find it reminiscent of a lighter, vegetable-forward version of traditional calabaza dishes like Mexican-style pumpkin soup.
Feel free to experiment with the garnish—fresh cilantro brings a burst of color and a hint of brightness, but a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of Greek yogurt could add an exciting twist as well.
For those of us on a continuous quest for wholesome, nutritious meals that don’t skimp on flavor, Calabazas Soup truly ticks all the boxes. Whether you are making it for a weeknight dinner with the family, or serving it at a weekend gathering with friends, this soup is sure to become a beloved recipe in your collection.
For a deeper dive into the health benefits of incorporating more vegetables into your diet, you might find this [article on vegetable-rich diets](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/health-benefits-of-vegetables) useful. If you’re new to using calabaza squash in cooking, take a look at this [guide to different types of squash](https://www.bonappetit.com/story/types-of-winter-squash) for some additional inspiration.
So go ahead, give Calabazas Soup a try—you’ll fall in love with the blend of flavors and the comforting warmth it brings to your table.
What You’ll Need
- 1 medium calabaza squash (about 2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Method
Step One
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step Two
Add the diced calabaza squash, sliced carrots, and diced potato to the pot. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to begin to soften.
Step Three
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step Four
Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Five
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches to puree it until smooth, then return it to the pot.
Step Six
Stir in the coconut milk and lime juice. Heat the soup gently, but do not bring it to a boil.
Step Seven
Serve the Calabazas Soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro. Enjoy!