Save Experience the ultimate comfort of a velvety Butternut Squash Soup. This warming dish combines the deep sweetness of roasted squash with aromatic vegetables and a delicate touch of cumin and nutmeg, making it a perfect companion for winter wellness and cozy evenings at home.
Save This recipe is as easy as it is rewarding. By spending a few minutes roasting the vegetables, you unlock a depth of flavor that transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet starter or a soul-satisfying main course.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 1 medium butternut squash (about 1.2 kg), peeled, seeded, and diced; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Liquids: 800 ml vegetable stock; 200 ml coconut milk (or heavy cream for a richer version)
- Spices & Seasonings: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Garnish (optional): Fresh parsley or coriander, chopped; Toasted pumpkin seeds; A swirl of coconut milk or cream
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Step 2
- Toss the diced butternut squash with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking tray and roast for 25 minutes, until golden and tender.
- Step 3
- Meanwhile, heat the remaining olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and carrots; sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Step 4
- Add garlic, cumin, and nutmeg; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 5
- Add the roasted squash to the pot. Pour in the vegetable stock, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Step 6
- Remove from heat. Using an immersion blender (or carefully in batches with a regular blender), purée the soup until silky smooth.
- Step 7
- Stir in coconut milk (or cream), heat gently, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Step 8
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, pumpkin seeds, and a swirl of coconut milk or cream, if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Roasting the squash is essential as it enhances its natural sweetness and depth of flavor. For the best consistency, ensure you use a high-quality immersion blender or a standard blender to achieve a truly silky texture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For an extra kick, add a pinch of chili flakes while sautéing the vegetables. You can also swap the coconut milk for heavy dairy cream if a traditional rich flavor is preferred.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this soup warm with a side of crusty artisan bread for a complete meal, or offer it in smaller portions as an elegant starter for a festive multi-course dinner.
Save Enjoy this nutritious and comforting soup, a true staple for wellness and cold-weather dining. Bon appétit!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. This soup actually tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of liquid if needed.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, it freezes beautifully. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Leave some headspace for expansion. It keeps well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- → What can I use instead of coconut milk?
Heavy cream creates an even richer version. For a lighter option, use whole milk or half-and-half. Those avoiding dairy can try cashew cream or simply omit and increase the stock slightly.
- → Why roast the squash first?
Roasting concentrates the natural sugars and adds subtle caramelization notes you can't achieve through boiling alone. This extra step creates deeper flavor and a more vibrant golden color.
- → How do I get the smoothest texture?
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for convenience. For ultra-smooth results, pass the puréed soup through a fine-mesh sieve. This removes any remaining fibrous bits for a silky finish.
- → What garnishes work well?
Try toasted pumpkin seeds for crunch, a drizzle of coconut milk swirl, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or a pinch of chili flakes for heat. Crispy pancetta or croutons add savory contrast.