Delicious Butternut Squash Soup Recipes: Sweet and Savory Versions Youll Love

soup lovers! Today we’re diving into the world of butternut squash soup, and trust me, you’re gonna love this. Butternut squash soup is one of those dishes that just screams comfort. Its like a warm hug in a bowlperfect for chilly days or when you need a little pick-me-up. So, grab your apron, and lets get cooking!

Why Butternut Squash Soup?

First off, why butternut squash? Well, its a superstar in the veggie world. Packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, this gourd is not only tasty but super healthy too. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can go sweet, savory, spicy, or even a mix of all three! How cool is that?

Let me tell ya, I was skeptical at first. Growing up, squash wasn’t exactly on my list of favorites. But once I tried a creamy bowl of butternut squash soup, I was hooked. It’s smooth, rich, and oh-so-satisfying. So, let’s get started with a couple of recipes that highlight the sweet and savory sides of this delightful dish.

Sweet Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

This sweet version is perfect for those who love a touch of natural sweetness in their meals. Its like dessert but healthier (and totally acceptable to have for dinner!). Heres what youll need:

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 apple, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith works great)
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400F (200C). Spread the butternut squash cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with a bit of salt and pepper. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until theyre soft and fragrant.
3. Add the roasted squash, chopped apple, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
4. Using an immersion blender (or a regular blender in batches), puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
5. Stir in the coconut milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and a touch of honey or maple syrup if you like it sweeter.
6. Serve hot, and enjoy! This soup is great with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top.

Imagine cozying up with a bowl of this sweet delight. Its like autumn in a bowl, I tell ya.

Savory Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Now, lets switch gears and go for a savory version thats equally comforting but with a bit of a kick. This one’s for those days when you need something hearty and rich. Here’s what you need:

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for some heat)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (like thyme or parsley)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400F (200C). Just like before, spread the butternut squash cubes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with a bit of salt and pepper. Roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
2. In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot, cooking until theyre soft and fragrant.
3. Add the roasted squash and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
4. Using an immersion blender (or a regular blender in batches), puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
5. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and heavy cream. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs. This soup pairs beautifully with a crusty piece of bread or a side salad.

There ya have it! Two amazing butternut squash soup recipes that are sure to please any crowd. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, these soups have got you covered.

Tips for Perfect Butternut Squash Soup

Before I let ya go, here are a few tips to make sure your butternut squash soup turns out perfect every time:

• Choose the right squash: Look for a butternut squash thats firm and free of blemishes. The skin should be a uniform beige color.
• Roast the squash: Roasting the squash before adding it to the soup brings out its natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
• Blend well: For a super smooth soup, make sure to blend it thoroughly. An immersion blender is super handy for this, but a regular blender works just fine too.
• Adjust to taste: Dont be afraid to tweak the seasonings to your liking. Add a bit more spice if you like it hot, or a touch of sweetness if you have a sweet tooth.

Personal Touches and Variations

One of the things I love about cooking is making recipes your own. Feel free to experiment with these soups! Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Add protein: Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make the soup more filling.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Herbs and spices: Play around with different herbs and spices. Sage, rosemary, and thyme all pair beautifully with butternut squash.
• Top it off: Garnish your soup with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds, or a swirl of cream for an extra touch of yum.

Final Thoughts

So, what are ya waiting for? Grab that butternut squash and get cooking! Whether you prefer it sweet or savory, this versatile veggie is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. And hey, if youve got any favorite butternut squash soup recipes or tips, drop ’em in the comments. Id love to hear from ya!

Happy cooking, folks!

Check Out These Videos for More Inspiration!

Here are a couple of YouTube videos that show different takes on butternut squash soup. Theyre definitely worth a watch:

Dont forget to subscribe to their channels for more delicious recipes!