01 -
In a large pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving rendered fat in the pot.
02 -
Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the bacon fat. Sauté over medium heat until the onion is softened and translucent.
03 -
Stir in pumpkin puree and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
04 -
Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the mixture in batches to a standard blender, purée until silky, then return to the pot.
05 -
Add fat-free half and half and ground nutmeg. Stir well, then season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Warm gently over low heat if needed.
06 -
Ladle bisque into bowls. Top each serving with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh chives if desired.