Ingredients

• 1/2  cup chopped onion
• 1/2  cup water
• 2  teaspoons instant chicken bouillon granules
• 1  15-ounce can pumpkin
• 2-1/2  cups half-and-half or light cream
• 1-3/4  cups pear nectar
• 1/4  teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4  teaspoon white pepper
•   Pear slices (optional)

Directions

1. In a large saucepan combine onion, water, and bouillon granules. Bring to boiling. Reduce heat and simmer, covered, about 10 minutes or until onion is very tender; cool slightly. Do not drain.

2. Transfer mixture to a blender container or food processor bowl. Add pumpkin. Cover and blend or process until smooth. Return pumpkin mixture to saucepan. Stir in half-and-half or light cream, pear nectar, ginger, and white pepper. Cook and stir until heated through.

3. Ladle into soup bowls. If desired, garnish each serving with pear slices. Makes 6 servings.