Pumpkin Soup with Yellow Split Peas

Pumpkins are one of the healthiest vegetables in the world that are low in calories and packed with vitamins. A good cooking pumpkin usually has a lighter color than the typical orange pumpkin, and can be quite large. For this recipe you will need a medium sized pumpkin, two cups of split peas, and one onion. Depending on the size of the pumpkin this soup will serve at least 4-6 people.

Total Preparation and/or Cooking Time: 90 Minutes

Step 1: Gather all your ingredients. To avoid dirt and pesticides, wash or peel the pumpkin. Peeling can be difficult, so be careful! Alternatively, you can use an organic pumpkin, which will still need to be washed, but should be cleaner.
Step 2: Rinse the split peas and add water to let them soak. It is good to start them soaking the night before you make the soup, however, if you forget then you can let the split peas soak in boiling water about an hour before you use them.
Step 3: While the split peas are soaking cut the pumpkin into quarters and add it to a large soup pot. Pour around two cups of water into the pot, or enough to cover the bottom with two inches of water, set the heat to medium, and cover with a lid.
Step 4: After about 20-30 minutes the pumpkin will be done steaming and will be very hot! Carefully remove the pumpkin using tongs and drain the water from the pot. In the same pot add 2 table spoons of water and set it to high heat. Dice an onion and add it to the pot.
Step 5: Let the onion cook for about 5 minutes, then add in the split peas with 4 cups of water. You can now add in any spices you like. Starting with 1/2 a teaspoon of cinnamon and/or cumin is recommended.
Step 6: While the split peas are cooking scoop the seeds of the pumpkin out onto a plate. Be sure the pumpkin has cooled down.
Step 7: Next use a spoon to scoop out the pulp of the pumpkin to a separate plate.
Step 8: You should now have gathered between 2-4 cups of pumpkin pulp.
Step 9: After the peas have cooked for at least 30 minutes add the pumpkin to the peas and stir. Be sure to taste the soup to adjust the spices.
Step 10: Enjoy your pumpkin soup with a slice of fresh bread, or with a salad.
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