Introducing a delectable creation straight from the culinary expertise of Chef Joel Olson – the Roasted Winter Squash Soup. This versatile delight is tailor-made for those chilly fall and winter nights, offering a heartwarming experience that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this soup is bound to steal the show with its rich flavors and comforting aroma.
Recipe Summary:
- Name: Roasted Winter Squash Soup
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Description: A delightful soup featuring the seasonal flavors of butternut squash or pumpkin, perfect for warming up on cold evenings or adding a touch of elegance to holiday feasts.
Recipe Category: Vegetable
Keywords: Winter, Christmas, Weeknight, Less than 4 Hours, Easy
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 308.2
- Fat Content: 12.3g
- Saturated Fat Content: 4.9g
- Cholesterol Content: 22.5mg
- Sodium Content: 396.4mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 39.2g
- Fiber Content: 5g
- Sugar Content: 10.3g
- Protein Content: 8.8g
Ingredients (Quantities):
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 onions
- 1 garlic bulb
- 2 cups dry white wine
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon bay leaves
- 2 sprigs fresh parsley
- 1 butternut squash or pumpkin (approximately 4 pounds)
Recipe Instructions:
- Preparation: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Squash: Cut the squash in half, remove the seeds, and then quarter it. Brush the squash pieces generously with olive oil and season them liberally with salt and pepper.
- Roasting: Place the squash pieces, cut side up, in a baking dish and roast them in the preheated oven until they are soft and have developed a golden brown color around the edges. This typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Once done, remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.
- Sweat Onion: While the squash is roasting, heat the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the onions and cook them until they are soft and translucent, but not browned.
- Add Garlic: Add the garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine and cook, stirring frequently, until it has reduced to nearly dry, which usually takes about ten minutes. This step helps to deglaze the pot and infuse the soup with the flavorful essence of the wine.
- Bundle Herbs and Spices: Meanwhile, prepare a cheesecloth bundle or bouquet garni containing the thyme, black peppercorns, bay leaves, and fresh parsley. This will allow you to easily remove the herbs and spices later, while still imparting their aromatic flavors to the soup.
- Combine Ingredients: Once the wine has reduced, add the prepared cheesecloth bundle to the pot along with the roasted squash flesh.
- Add Stock: Gradually pour in the chicken stock, adjusting the amount based on your desired thickness for the soup. You may not need all 4 cups, so add it gradually while stirring continuously.
- Season and Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the soup simmer gently for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Blend: After simmering, remove the cheesecloth bundle from the pot and discard it. Then, using a hand blender or food processor, puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If using a food processor, work in batches to avoid overfilling.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of cream if desired. Enjoy the comforting warmth and delightful flavors of this roasted winter squash soup with your loved ones!
Chef’s Tips:
- To save time, you can prepare the roasted squash ahead of time and freeze it for later use. Simply thaw it before adding it to the soup.
- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the soup before blending.
- Adjust the seasonings according to your taste preferences, adding more herbs or spices as desired.
- Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
With its velvety smooth texture, rich flavors, and nourishing ingredients, Chef Joel Olson’s Roasted Winter Squash Soup is sure to become a beloved favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed on a cozy weeknight dinner or as a festive addition to your holiday table, this soup is a true embodiment of comfort and warmth. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and treat yourself to a bowl of pure culinary bliss. Bon appétit!
