Spiced Butternut Squash Soup
I like making this recipe year round, but it's best in the fall and winter months when butternut squash is in season. I love it because it's hearty and filling, but very healthy as well as easy to make. Serve it with some good crusty bread!
I like making this recipe year round, but it's best in the fall and winter months when butternut squash is in season. I love it because it's hearty and filling, but very healthy as well as easy to make. Serve it with some good crusty bread!
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 large onions sliced
- 1-1/4 teaspoons salt
- 1-3/4 cups water
- minced fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh gingerroot
- 3 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 2 medium butternut squash (about 3 pounds each)
- 2 sticks (3 inches)
- Carbohydrate 8.14660271026162 g
- Cholesterol 2.54192708442342 mg
- Fat 1.28687843803185 g
- Fiber 0.66518334988753 g
- Protein 0.478897812506668 g
- Saturated Fat 0.663253583610431 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings (3 quarts). (44g)
- Sodium 10.1826250034732 mg
- Sugar 7.48141936037409 g
- Trans Fat 0.0880389375320545 g
- Calories 44 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Halve squash; discard seeds.
- Place squash in a 15x10x1-in. pan coated with cooking spray, cut side down.
- Bake until tender, 40-50 minutes.
- Cool slightly; scoop out pulp.
- In a 6-qt. stockpot, heat butter and oil over medium heat; saute onions until tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add brown sugar, ginger, garlic and cinnamon sticks; cook and stir 2 minutes.
- Stir in salt, squash, broth and water; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat; simmer, covered, 10 minutes.
- Discard cinnamon.
- Puree soup using an immersion blender. Or, cool slightly and puree soup in batches in a blender; return to pan.
- If desired, thin with additional water or broth; heat through.
- Serve with parsley.
- Freeze option: Freeze cooled soup in freezer containers. To use, partially thaw in refrigerator overnight. Heat through in a saucepan, stirring occasionally and adding a little broth or water if necessary.
My Favorite Fall Comfort Food: Spiced Butternut Squash Soup
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and healthy meals can be a challenge. But this Spiced Butternut Squash Soup recipe is my go-to for those chilly evenings when I crave something comforting and satisfying, yet quick to prepare. It's the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with a hint of spice that warms you from the inside out. What I love most about this recipe, besides the incredible flavor, is its versatility. It’s hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, especially when paired with some crusty bread for dipping, but it's also light and healthy enough to not leave me feeling sluggish after dinner. The preparation is simple, and cleanup is a breeze – perfect for a busy weeknight!
The beauty of this soup is its seasonality. While I make it year-round because it’s so delicious, it truly shines during the fall and winter months when butternut squash is at its peak. That’s when it’s the sweetest and most flavorful, adding an extra layer of richness to the soup. I often find myself making a big batch, then freezing portions for future meals. It’s like having a little piece of autumn sunshine tucked away in my freezer, ready to be enjoyed whenever the mood strikes. This is a recipe I’ve been perfecting for years, making small adjustments to achieve exactly the right balance of flavors. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!
Beyond the Recipe: More Than Just a Soup
This soup is more than just a delicious meal; it's an experience. The aroma of roasting butternut squash, cinnamon, and ginger fills my kitchen, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. I often find myself making a double batch, not just for myself and my family, but also to share with friends and neighbors. Sharing food is a way of sharing love and connection, and this soup always seems to bring people together. It's a conversation starter, a comfort food, and a perfect way to celebrate the simple joys of life.
Tips and Variations:
This recipe is incredibly versatile and adaptable to your own tastes and preferences. Feel free to experiment with different spices to create your unique twist. A dash of nutmeg or allspice could add another layer of warmth, while a pinch of cayenne pepper could bring a pleasant kick. If you prefer a creamier soup, you can stir in a dollop of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end. You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or even apples, to enhance the flavor and texture. And don't be afraid to get creative with the garnishes. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds, a swirl of crème fraîche, or a drizzle of maple syrup can all elevate the presentation and flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions:
This soup is delightful on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A crusty loaf of bread, a simple green salad, or even some grilled cheese sandwiches would complement the soup perfectly. For a special occasion, you could top the soup with toasted croutons or a sprinkle of chopped chives. The possibilities are endless!
More than just a recipe, this is a journey…
The preparation of this soup is a journey in itself, a mindful process that connects me to the food and the season. From selecting the perfect butternut squash at the farmer's market to the satisfying aroma filling my kitchen as it roasts in the oven, each step brings me closer to the final product. It’s a reminder to slow down, appreciate the simple things, and find joy in the process of creating something delicious and nourishing. And when it's finally time to savor the first spoonful of this warm and comforting soup, it's a moment of pure bliss – a little taste of happiness that warms both my body and my soul.
