Spiced Afghan Pumpkin Stew

Name: Spiced Afghan Pumpkin Stew
Ingredients: 2 small or 1 large approx. 4 pounds total weight sugar pumpkin (could sub butternut squash); 2 tbsp. vegetable or olive oil; 1 medium onion diced; 4 garlic cloves minced; 1 tbsp. grated fresh ginger; 2 tsp. ground cumin; 1 tsp. ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp. turmeric; 1 tsp. chili paste or harissa adjust to heat preference; 1/4 tsp. salt or to taste; 1 tbsp. raw sugar or granulated sugar of choice; 1 to 2 cups vegetable broth; 1/4 cup tomato paste; cooked basmati rice for serving; cashew cream for serving (optional)