Butternut Squash and Rhubarb Soup: A Unique Blend of Flavors
If you’ve ever been on the lookout for a soup that combines the earthy sweetness of butternut squash with the tartness of rhubarb, then this delightful recipe is just what you need. Not only does it create a strikingly vibrant dish that warms the soul, but it also packs a nutritional punch that is sure to impress. With a preparation time of around 20 minutes and a cooking time that is just as quick, you can whip this up in under an hour, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Recipe Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Recipe Name | Butternut Squash and Rhubarb Soup |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings (estimated) |
| Description | A unique soup featuring butternut squash and rhubarb, offering a delightful balance of flavors. |
| Keywords | Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, < 60 Mins |
Ingredients
To make this delicious soup, gather the following ingredients, ensuring you have everything on hand for a smooth cooking experience:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Onion | 1 1/4 medium |
| Rhubarb | 1 3/4 cups, chopped |
| Caster Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Butternut Squash | 1 medium, peeled and diced |
| Chicken Stock | 1 liter |
| Fresh Coriander | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
| Olive Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Seasoning (Salt & Pepper) | To taste |
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional value of your meal is essential, especially when aiming for a healthy lifestyle. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving of this soup:
| Nutritional Component | Value per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 286.1 |
| Total Fat | 6.4 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 6.3 mg |
| Sodium | 316.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 53.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.8 g |
| Sugars | 15.6 g |
| Protein | 9.3 g |
Instructions
Creating this Butternut Squash and Rhubarb Soup is not only a rewarding experience but also a straightforward one, allowing you to enjoy the cooking process without unnecessary stress. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a bowl of warming goodness:
-
Prepare the Rhubarb Puree:
Begin by thoroughly washing the rhubarb, then cut it into manageable chunks. Place the chopped rhubarb into a saucepan, adding 1 tablespoon of caster sugar to enhance its natural sweetness. Gradually bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. -
Cook the Rhubarb:
Allow the rhubarb to boil for just one minute. After this brief boiling session, remove the saucepan from the heat but keep it covered with a lid. This will allow the rhubarb to soften and cool down completely in its own steam, creating a smooth puree later. -
Sauté the Onion:
While the rhubarb cools, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the finely chopped onion, cooking it gently until it becomes translucent and slightly golden, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. -
Prepare the Butternut Squash:
Peel and seed the butternut squash, then chop it into cubes for even cooking. Add these cubes directly to the pot with the sautéed onion. Stir the mixture to combine the flavors before proceeding to the next step. -
Add the Chicken Stock:
Pour in the chicken stock, ensuring that the squash and onions are completely submerged. Cover the pot and increase the heat, allowing the contents to come to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the squash is tender and easily pierced with a fork. -
Blend the Soup:
After the squash has cooked through, take the pot off the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Using a blender, carefully puree the soup in batches if necessary, until it reaches a creamy and smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend it less or leave some pieces intact. -
Incorporate the Rhubarb Puree:
Once blended, return the soup to the pot and add the cooled rhubarb puree. Stir in 1 tablespoon of freshly chopped coriander to brighten the flavors. This herb will add a refreshing element that pairs beautifully with both the squash and rhubarb. -
Season to Taste:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary with salt and pepper. This step is essential to enhance all the flavors you’ve combined. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls, garnishing with additional coriander if desired, and perhaps a drizzle of olive oil for a touch of richness. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal that your friends and family will rave about.
This Butternut Squash and Rhubarb Soup is not just a comforting dish; it’s a culinary adventure that brings together unexpected flavors in a harmonious way. Enjoy the vibrant colors, the nourishing warmth, and the delightful taste that only comes from such a unique combination. Perfect for any occasion, this soup is bound to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
