Pumpkin Soup with Asian Flavors

• pumpkin↗1 kg

  cut into 1 inch cubes

• peanut oil1 tablespoon
• cloves crushed garlic2
• large chopped onion1
• sambal oelek↗1 teaspoon
• chopped lemongrass (, white part only)3 tablespoons
• water↗5 cups
• chicken stock powder↗1 teaspoon
• fish sauce↗1 tablespoon
• lime juice↗1 tablespoon
• coconut milk↗1 1⁄2 cups
• fresh basil↗4 tablespoons
• fresh coriander2 tablespoons

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Heat the oil in a large pan.

2. 2

   Add the garlic, onion, sambal oelek and lemon grass and cook until the onion is soft.

3. 3

   Add the pumpkin and cook, stirring for about 2 minutes.

4. 4

   Add the water, stock powder, sauce and juice.

5. 5

   Simmer, covered until the pumpkin is just tender.

6. 6

   Blend or process half the mixture and then return to the pan.

7. 7

   Add the coconut cream and the herbs-stir over heat until hot.