Prepare all ingredients except coconut milk and add to a medium pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer to flavours to intensify for an hour or longer.
When you are ready to serve, add coconut milk and use either an immersion blender or upright blender to blend until smooth. Taste, add salt and pepper to your liking. Serving hot. Will keep for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the fridge, or freeze.