Bacon-Infused Butternut Squash Soup π₯π²
Overview:
Looking for a comforting winter soup that tantalizes your taste buds with a hint of heat and the savory goodness of bacon? This Bacon-Infused Butternut Squash Soup is the answer! Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe, originating from Southern Living, promises a delightful blend of flavors that will warm you up from the inside out. Plus, it’s low in protein and cholesterol, making it a healthy choice for those mindful of their diet.
- Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories per Serving: 211.2
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 6 | Bacon slices |
| 1 | Onion |
| 2 | Carrots |
| 2 | Celery ribs |
| 1 | Granny Smith apple |
| 2 | Garlic cloves |
| 4 cups | Butternut squash, cubed |
| 1 | Fresh lime juice |
| 2 tbsp | Honey |
| 1 1/2 tsp | Salt |
| 2 tsp | Ground black pepper |
| 1/8 tsp | Ground allspice |
| 1/8 tsp | Ground nutmeg |
| 1/8 tsp | Crushed red pepper flakes |
| 1/4 cup | Sour cream |
Instructions:
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Cook Bacon: Begin by cooking the bacon slices in a large pot until they turn irresistibly crisp. Once done, remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside to drain. Pro tip: Reserve about 2 tablespoons of the flavorful drippings in the pot for added depth of flavor.
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Saute Aromatics: In the same pot with the reserved bacon drippings, sautΓ© the diced onion and carrots over medium-high heat for approximately 5 minutes, or until the onion turns tender and translucent, infusing the kitchen with their irresistible aroma.
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Add Celery and Apple: Introduce the celery ribs and Granny Smith apple to the pot, and continue to sautΓ© for another 5 minutes. The addition of these fresh ingredients adds layers of complexity to the soup, balancing its flavors perfectly.
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Garlic Infusion: Don’t forget the garlic! Add the minced garlic cloves to the pot and sautΓ© for about a minute, allowing them to release their aromatic essence and elevate the overall flavor profile of the soup.
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Incorporate Squash and Broth: Now it’s time to bring in the star of the show – the butternut squash. Add the cubed squash to the pot along with the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
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Simmer to Perfection: Once the pot reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer and let the ingredients mingle and meld together for about 20 minutes, or until the carrots are tender and the squash is cooked through.
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Blend to Smoothness: Carefully transfer the cooked mixture in batches to a blender or food processor, and process until you achieve a smooth and velvety consistency. Be cautious not to overfill the blender, as hot mixtures tend to erupt – trust us, you don’t want a messy kitchen mishap!
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Return to Pot: After achieving the desired consistency, return the blended mixture to the pot, where it will continue to simmer and develop its rich flavors.
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Season and Simmer: Stir in the fresh lime juice, honey, salt, ground black pepper, ground allspice, ground nutmeg, and a touch of crushed red pepper flakes for that subtle kick of heat. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 7-10 minutes, or until it reaches the desired thickness and consistency.
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Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, top the piping hot soup with the crumbled bacon pieces, a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
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Enjoy! Ladle this delectable Bacon-Infused Butternut Squash Soup into bowls, and savor each spoonful of its comforting warmth and complex flavors. Serve alongside crusty bread or a simple salad for a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly winter nights.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner option or planning a cozy gathering with loved ones, this Bacon-Infused Butternut Squash Soup is sure to impress with its irresistible aroma, vibrant flavors, and comforting warmth. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Cheers to good food, good company, and unforgettable moments shared around the table! π₯£π
