As we draw into autumn pumpkin and other members of the marrow family become more evident at the vegetable markets and greengrocers. This recipe is a take on a traditional Maltese autumn soup “Soppa tal- Qarghat” made from the different marrows; qagħra hamra (pumpkin), qagħra Tork (white pumpkin), qagħra baghli (courgettes) and qagħra twil (long marrow). Any combination may be used. Squash is fine as well but I prefer vegetables that have been grown locally as this is more sustainable. White Marrow was not available at the market so I used what I found.

Ingredients:

Pumpkin, Marrows and Long Marrows in roughly equal quantities. In all 1.2 Kg

Leek                                                                                  1

Organic Quinoa                                                            100g

Cumin Powder                                                               2 tsp

1 small chili pepper

Olive oil                                                                          2 tbsp

Vegetable Stock                                                          500 ml

Method:

Wash and chop the leek.

Tip: To remove soil and compost from leek remove the two topmost layers and quarter lengthwise leaving the root. Rinse thoroughly under running water and dry with paper towels.

Easily chop into 1.5 cm  lengths.   

Heat oil in pot and gently fry the leeks. When they start to get translucent add the cumin and the chili and fry for one minute to release the flavour. Add the washed and chunkily chopped marrows to the pot and barely cover with the stock. Bring to the boil and simmer for five minutes. Add Quinoa, cover and simmer for fifteen minutes. Leave to rest for another fifteen minutes during which most of the liquid will be absorbed.

I served this with grilled flat bread such as flour tortillas.