Butternut Squash Soup

Why Make This Recipe

Butternut squash soup is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for any time of the year, especially during the cooler months. It is rich in flavor, nutritious, and easy to make. This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create a creamy, delicious soup that everyone will love. Plus, it can be made vegan or vegetarian with just a few tweaks!

How to Make Butternut Squash Soup

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like thyme or parsley)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the diced butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. Add the roasted squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and stir in cinnamon and nutmeg.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer to a blender in batches.
7. Stir in heavy cream if using, and adjust seasoning to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

How to Serve Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut squash soup can be served as a starter or a main dish. It pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad. For a more filling meal, you can add some cooked grains like quinoa or rice to the soup as you serve it.

How to Store Butternut Squash Soup

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. To freeze, place the cooled soup in a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Butternut Squash Soup

• For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a drizzle of maple syrup.
• If you want a thicker soup, you can add more butternut squash or reduce the broth.
• To make it vegan, simply omit the heavy cream or use coconut milk instead.

Variation

You can add other vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes for variety. Experiment with spices like ginger or curry powder to change the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, butternut squash soup can be made ahead. It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.

2. Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes! Frozen butternut squash is a great time-saver. Just add it directly to the pot when cooking, but keep in mind it might need a little more cooking time.

3. How can I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can add more roasted squash or use less broth. Blending the soup until smooth will also help create a thicker texture.