Curried Coconut-Pumpkin Soup

I. INGREDIENTS

• 2 tablespoons light olive oil
• 1/4 cup minced red onion
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeno pepper, ribs and seeds removed, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 1/2 cups peeled, cubed (1-inch), seeded pumpkin
• 1 cup light coconut milk
• 1 cup rice milk
• 1 pound extra-firm tofu, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 red bell pepper, ribs and seeds discarded, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
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II. COOKING DIRECTIONS

• In large, heavy pot over medium-high heat, heat oil. Saute onion, garlic, jalapeno, and ginger until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add curry powder and pumpkin. Cook and stir for 1 minute.
• Stir in coconut milk and rice milk; bring to a boil. Lower to a simmer; cover and cook for 15 minutes. Add more milk or water if needed.
• Add tofu and red bell pepper. Simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes, uncovered, or until pumpkin is tender. Season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Garnish with whole cilantro leaves. Serve hot.

Yield: 4 servings