Name: Indian Pumpkin and Bean Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 tbsp oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cups pumpkin (cubed or purée); 1 cup white or kidney beans (cooked or canned, drained and rinsed); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tsp curry powder; ½ tsp turmeric; ½ cup coconut milk; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 270 reviews

If you are craving something that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, this Indian Pumpkin and Bean Soup Recipe is just what you need. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that beautifully blends the sweetness of pumpkin with the earthy richness of beans, all elevated by golden curry spices and a touch of creamy coconut milk. Every spoonful offers a lovely balance of flavors and textures that sing with warmth and nourishment, making this soup not only delicious but incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned fan of Indian-inspired food or just exploring new savory horizons, this recipe is simple to make and guaranteed to become a beloved favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of several small white bowls and dishes arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center is a bowl filled with large chunks of bright orange sweet potatoes. Around it, there is a smaller white bowl with pale beans, another white bowl with finely chopped light yellow garlic, and a green bowl filled with chopped white onions to the left. A white dish holds four sections of spices in different colors: black pepper, white salt, beige garlic powder, and red paprika. There is a small black measuring cup with a dark liquid inside and a small blue dish with two sections of spices in brown and dark red tones. Fresh green rosemary sprigs lie on the right side with some scattered pale beans. A whole bulb of garlic sits on the top right corner. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Using a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients, this soup comes together quickly without any fuss. Each component plays a vital role—from the natural sweetness of pumpkin to the subtle heat of curry powder, and the creaminess of coconut milk that ties everything together perfectly.

1 tbsp oil: Helps sauté the onions and release their natural sweetness.
1 onion, diced: Adds depth and a mild sharpness that forms the soup’s flavor base.
2 cups pumpkin (cubed or purée): Provides a velvety texture and a vibrant orange color.
1 cup white or kidney beans: Offers protein and a creamy bite that makes the soup filling.
4 cups vegetable broth: The liquid foundation that brings all the ingredients together in a gentle simmer.
1 tsp curry powder: Infuses the soup with aromatic, warm spices characteristic of Indian cuisine.
½ tsp turmeric: Adds a subtle earthiness and enhances the vibrant hue.
½ cup coconut milk: Introduces a luscious creaminess with tropical undertones.
Salt, pepper, cilantro: Essential seasoning and fresh herbs that brighten and balance the flavors.

How to Make Indian Pumpkin and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Spice It Up

Begin by heating oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, releasing that subtle sweetness you want as the flavor base. Then toss in the pumpkin along with the curry powder and turmeric. Stir well to coat the pumpkin pieces in the spices, allowing their fragrance to bloom and mingle with the onion.

Step 2: Add Beans and Broth, Then Simmer

Next, pour in the beans and the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes. The pumpkin will soften beautifully, and the spices will infuse the broth, creating a rich, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen and makes it impossible to wait any longer.

Step 3: Blend to Your Liking

For a velvety texture, blend a portion of the soup until smooth and then stir it back in. You can opt to blend it entirely for a creamy finish or leave it chunkier if you prefer a more rustic, hearty mouthfeel. This step allows you to tailor the soup exactly to your taste.

Step 4: Stir in Coconut Milk and Cilantro

To finish the soup, gently fold in the coconut milk. This adds a silky richness that mellows the spices and complements the pumpkin’s natural sweetness. Sprinkle in fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of color and a fresh, bright flavor that beautifully contrasts with the warm spices.

How to Serve Indian Pumpkin and Bean Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with a rich red-orange soup that has visible chunks of chicken and beans, topped with fresh green cilantro leaves and a few black beans scattered on top. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. In the blurred background, there is a white pot with the same soup, showing more chicken pieces and beans. To the right, a wooden cutting board holds sliced green lime halves and chopped chicken pieces. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Once your soup is ready, consider topping it with a few extra cilantro leaves, a drizzle of coconut milk, or even a sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch. For those who love a little heat, a dash of chili flakes or a swirl of hot sauce can elevate the flavor further.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with warm naan bread or crusty whole-grain bread to soak up every last bit. A simple cucumber raita or a fresh green salad can provide a cooling counterpoint to the warm spices and creamy texture of the soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, serve the soup in small carved-out pumpkins for a festive presentation. Alternatively, layering the soup in clear glass bowls with a swirl of coconut milk and a scattering of fresh herbs can make it look as amazing as it tastes—perfect if you are entertaining guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Indian Pumpkin and Bean Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and vibrant flavors. The spices tend to deepen after resting, so leftovers often taste even better the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring into freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results and avoid freezing with the fresh cilantro; add that after reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Finish with fresh cilantro and a swirl of coconut milk to revive the bright flavors and creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh pumpkin?

Absolutely! Canned pumpkin puree is a great shortcut, just make sure it’s pure pumpkin without added spices or sugars. It will blend seamlessly into the soup and save prep time.

Can I substitute beans with lentils in this soup?

Yes, red lentils make a wonderful substitute, creating a dhal-style soup with a softer texture and slightly different flavor profile that still pairs beautifully with the spices and coconut milk.

How can I make the soup spicier?

To add some heat, sprinkle in chili powder or cayenne pepper along with the curry powder. You can also top the soup with finely chopped fresh chilies or hot sauce before serving.

Is this recipe vegan and gluten-free?

Yes, this Indian Pumpkin and Bean Soup Recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs without any modifications necessary.

What other herbs can I use if I don’t have cilantro?

If cilantro isn’t your favorite or you don’t have it on hand, fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of mint can add a lovely fresh note that complements the soup nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Indian Pumpkin and Bean Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that delights with its beautiful simplicity and wonderful layers of flavor. It’s perfect for cozy evenings, filling lunches, or anytime you want a nourishing meal that feels just like home. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes your new go-to comfort soup that you’ll want to share with everyone you care about!

Indian Pumpkin and Bean Soup Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need