Curried Butternut Squash Soup

Curried Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Warm up your soul with the comforting flavors of our Curried Butternut Squash Soup. This creamy and aromatic soup is a perfect blend of sweet butternut squash, fragrant spices, and savory broth. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a vibrant appetizer for your next gathering, this Curried Butternut Squash Soup is sure to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients

Produce

  • 2 lbs Butternut squash
  • 4 cloves Garlic
  • 1 cup Onion

Canned Goods

  • 4 cups Chicken broth

Condiments

  • 2 tbsp Honey

Baking & Spices

  • 1/4 tsp Cayenne pepper
  • 2 tsp Curry powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Ground cumin

Dairy

  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 1/2 cup Half-and-half
  • 1/4 cup Sour cream

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients: Peel, seed, and chop the butternut squash into cubes. Mince the garlic and finely dice the onion.
  2. Cook Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Squash and Spices: Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot, along with the curry powder, ground cumin, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir to coat the squash evenly with the spices.
  4. Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and honey, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
  5. Blend Soup: Using an immersion blender or regular blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
  6. Add Cream: Stir in the half-and-half, adjusting the amount to reach your desired consistency. Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes to heat through.
  7. Serve: Ladle the Curried Butternut Squash Soup into bowls and garnish each serving with a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Roasted Squash: For added depth of flavor, you can roast the cubed butternut squash in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes before adding it to the soup.
  • Texture: If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can reserve some of the cooked squash cubes before blending and stir them back into the soup after pureeing.
  • Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, substitute vegetable broth for the chicken broth and maple syrup for the honey.

Keto and Low Carb Versions

Keto Version

To make this Curried Butternut Squash Soup keto-friendly, you can reduce the amount of honey or omit it entirely, as well as decrease the amount of onion used. Replace the half-and-half with heavy cream for a richer, lower carb option.

Low Carb Version

For a low carb version, omit the honey completely and use a low carb sweetener alternative if desired. Ensure the chicken broth and half-and-half are both unsweetened and contain no added sugars.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?

Yes, you can save time by using pre-cut butternut squash cubes available at many grocery stores. This will streamline the preparation process without sacrificing flavor.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This Curried Butternut Squash Soup freezes well. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove.

3. Can I adjust the spice level?

Certainly! Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper used to control the heat level of the soup. Add more for a spicier kick or reduce it for a milder flavor.

4. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. For added protein, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp.

5. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version of this soup by substituting the butter, half-and-half, and sour cream with dairy-free alternatives such as olive oil, coconut milk, or cashew cream.

In conclusion, our Curried Butternut Squash Soup is a delicious and satisfying dish that celebrates the flavors of the season. With its creamy texture, warming spices, and subtle sweetness, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a comforting meal on a chilly day or as an elegant starter for a special occasion, this Curried Butternut Squash Soup is guaranteed to impress. So gather your ingredients, embrace the aromas of the kitchen, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure comfort and flavor!