Fujian-style Pumpkin Soup

Ingredients

In this Fujian-style adaptation of New Zealand Pumpkin Soup, we incorporate the distinct flavors and ingredients of Fujian cuisine. The addition of dried shrimp and shiitake mushrooms adds umami depth to the soup, while soy sauce provides a savory note. These ingredients, commonly used in Fujian cuisine, give the soup a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from the original New Zealand version. We alse have the original recipe for New Zealand Pumpkin Soup, so you can check it out.

• 1 kg (2.2 lbs) pumpkin, peeled and diced 1 kg (2.2 lbs) pumpkin, peeled and diced
• 50g (1.8 oz) dried shrimp 50g (1.8 oz) dried shrimp
• 4 dried shiitake mushrooms 4 dried shiitake mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 6g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 28g, 10g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Soak the dried shrimp and shiitake mushrooms in warm water for 20 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.
3. 3.
   Add the soaked dried shrimp and shiitake mushrooms to the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. 4.
   Add the diced pumpkin, soy sauce, sugar, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender.
5. 5.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
6. 6.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Serve the Fujian-style Pumpkin Soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dried shrimp — Make sure to soak the dried shrimp in warm water before using to rehydrate them and remove any excess saltiness.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a small amount of minced chili pepper to the soup.
• If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more vegetable broth or water.
• Garnish the soup with a drizzle of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
• Serve the soup with steamed rice or crusty bread for a more substantial meal.
• Experiment with different types of pumpkin or squash varieties for unique flavor profiles.

Serving advice

Serve the Fujian-style Pumpkin Soup as a comforting appetizer or as a light main course. Pair it with a side of steamed rice or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

Present the Fujian-style Pumpkin Soup in individual bowls, garnished with a sprig of fresh cilantro. For an elegant touch, drizzle a swirl of soy sauce on top of the soup before serving.