Jamaican Pumpkin Chickpea Soup

Name: Jamaican Pumpkin Chickpea Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups pumpkin, cubed; 1 cup chickpeas, cooked; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon ground coriander; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Natural Healthy Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making this Jamaican Pumpkin Chickpea Soup, especially during the cooler months. The rich flavors of pumpkin and spices combined with the protein-packed chickpeas create a comforting and nourishing bowl that warms the soul. The best part is how easy it is to prepare! With just a few ingredients and a little bit of time, I can whip up this vibrant soup that not only tastes incredible but is also packed with nutrients. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Created by

Allegra Stone

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:53:34.841Z

When I first tried Jamaican Pumpkin Chickpea Soup, I was blown away by the combination of flavors. The sweet pumpkin infuses the broth with a subtle sweetness, while the spices add a warm, earthy base. I remember adjusting the seasoning halfway through cooking, and that little tweak made such a difference. It's incredible how balancing flavors can elevate a dish!

This soup is not just delicious; it’s also so versatile! I've experimented with different spices and added extras like coconut milk for creaminess. Each batch has its own character, yet the comforting essence remains the same. I can't wait for you to try it and make it your own!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and satisfying, perfect for any meal.
Spices add a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
Nutritious blend of pumpkin and chickpeas.

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh pumpkin for this recipe is key to achieving a vibrant flavor and rich texture. If you can find it, opt for sugar pumpkin or any other variety that is sweet and smooth. Avoid overripe or wrinkled pumpkins, as they can impart a bitter taste. When cubing the pumpkin, aim for uniform pieces about 1-inch in size; this ensures even cooking, allowing them to become tender and easy to blend within the designated 20-minute simmering time.

Chickpeas add not only heartiness but also a wonderful creaminess to the soup. Whenever possible, use dried chickpeas that you've soaked overnight and cooked; they have a better texture compared to canned varieties. If you do use canned, rinse them under cold water to remove excess sodium. This small step enhances the overall flavor profile and balances the natural sweetness of the pumpkin.

Techniques for Perfect Blending

When it comes to pureeing the soup, using an immersion blender is my favorite method because it minimizes mess and allows for more control over the consistency. Blend until the soup is smooth and has a glossy appearance; if you prefer some texture, pulse it a few times to leave small chunks. If you're using a traditional blender, fill it only halfway to prevent boiling liquid from spilling over the top, and always cover the lid with a kitchen towel to allow steam to escape safely.

If the soup ends up being too thick after blending, you can adjust the consistency by adding more vegetable broth or water incrementally. For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a splash of coconut milk during the final cooking step. This adds a delightful tropical flavor that complements the spices beautifully. Always taste and adjust seasoning at this stage, as the ingredients can absorb some of the flavors.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups pumpkin, cubed
1 cup chickpeas, cooked
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ginger, grated
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Enjoy your soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.

Add Pumpkin and Spices

Stir in the cubed pumpkin, ground cumin, and ground coriander. Cook for about 5 minutes to allow the spices to toast.

Pour in Broth

Add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.

Blend the Soup

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. You can also carefully transfer it to a traditional blender in batches.

Add Chickpeas

Stir in the cooked chickpeas and let the soup cook for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy!

This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add a splash of coconut milk for extra creaminess or experiment with spices like curry powder for a different twist.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This soup is perfect for make-ahead meals; in fact, the flavors deepen when it sits overnight. Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency again.

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. When stored properly, it can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stove, following the same rehydration method if needed.

Serving Suggestions

This Jamaican Pumpkin Chickpea Soup is not only delicious on its own but also makes a wonderful base for various toppings. Consider adding a dollop of yogurt or sour cream for creaminess, or sprinkle with roasted pumpkin seeds for a delightful crunch. A splash of lime juice just before serving can brighten the flavors and provide a lovely contrast to the richness of the soup.

Pair this hearty soup with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a full meal. If you want to make it even more substantial, serve it with cooked quinoa or rice stirred in just before serving. This not only increases the protein content but also makes it a more filling dish for those chilly evenings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned pumpkin?

Yes, you can use canned pumpkin, just make sure to adjust the liquid since canned pumpkin is thicker.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Absolutely! This soup is fully vegan-friendly, made with plant-based ingredients.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even grilled vegetables for a complete meal.