Steps

1. Remove the seeds from 1/4 Pumpkin (approx. 450g) using a spoon.
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2. Lightly wet the entire surface of the Pumpkin after removing the seeds. [This is the secret!] This is the point that makes it delicious.
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3. Wrap the wet Pumpkin tightly with plastic wrap.
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4. Microwave the plastic-wrapped Pumpkin on 600W for 8 minutes.
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5. Wrap the softened Pumpkin in aluminum foil and, if possible, cover with a towel to keep it warm for 10 minutes. [This is the secret!] Steaming slowly with residual heat brings out the ingredient's natural flavor and sweetness, preventing it from becoming dry.
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6. Scoop out the flesh of the Pumpkin, which has become even softer from steaming, and place it in a bowl, being careful not to include any skin.
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7. Mash the Pumpkin in the bowl with a spoon until it forms a paste. [This is the secret!] Mashing at this stage ensures a creamy and rich potage without a blender.
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8. Add Mirin (Sweet Rice Wine) 2 tbsp to the mashed Pumpkin and mix while kneading. [This is the secret!] Mirin adds sweetness and depth, and its alcohol evaporates, removing any grassy smell from the pumpkin.
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9. Gradually add Water 100ml while thinning out the pumpkin paste. Add slowly to avoid lumps.
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10. Place Butter 20g in a pot and melt over low heat.
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11. Once the butter has melted, add the prepared pumpkin paste to the pot and sauté over low heat for about 2 minutes, stirring well to prevent sticking.
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12. Gradually add Milk 250ml while thinning out the pumpkin paste.
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13. Add all the remaining milk and slowly bring to a simmer over low heat.
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14. Once it simmers through the center, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the pumpkin and milk to meld.
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15. Add Salt 2 pinches and Sugar 1 tsp, then mix well to season. [This is the secret!] Salt takes time to dissolve, so add it early. Sugar enhances the pumpkin's natural sweetness.
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16. Adjust the consistency of the potage to your liking. Add Milk 50ml if necessary.
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17. If the pumpkin's natural flavor is weak, add Consomme 1 tsp to enhance the umami.
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18. For garnish, mix a small amount of Milk with Lemon Juice to thicken and create a creamy drizzle.
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19. Ladle the finished potage into bowls and, if desired, sprinkle with Parsley.
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