Curried Butternut Squash Soup
A vibrant, comforting bowl of Curried Butternut Squash Soup that beautifully combines the warmth of spices with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash. This vegetarian dish is perfect for those seeking a soul-warming meal packed with flavor and a touch of heat. It serves 4, making it ideal for a cozy dinner or as a starter to a larger meal.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Butternut squash | 1 | Peeled, deseeded, and sliced into strips |
| Red onion | 1, chopped | Adds a subtle sweetness |
| Cumin seeds | 1 tsp | For aromatic warmth |
| Garlic cloves | 2, chopped finely | Adds depth and flavor |
| Fresh ginger | 3 cm piece, grated | Infuses a fresh, zesty kick |
| Red chillies | 2, chopped | Adjust for desired heat level |
| Water or chicken stock | 500ml | Choose stock for more depth of flavor |
| Coconut cream | 50ml | For a creamy texture and richness |
Instructions
-
Roast the Squash:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Slice the butternut squash into four long strips and remove the seeds. Place the squash on a baking tray, adding a small knob of butter to each piece. Roast for about 35 minutes, or until the squash becomes tender and soft. -
Cook the Aromatics:
While the squash roasts, heat a little oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and sauté them until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the chopped red onion and cook gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften. -
Add the Spices:
Stir in the chopped garlic, grated ginger, and red chillies, cooking for another 5 minutes. This will allow the spices to infuse into the mixture, adding depth and a hint of heat. -
Combine Squash and Stock:
Once the squash is roasted, scoop out the flesh and discard the skin. Stir the flesh into the onion and spice mixture. Add the water or chicken stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and thick. If the soup is too thick for your liking, add a little hot water to achieve your desired consistency. -
Finish with Coconut Cream:
Stir in the coconut cream for added richness and a velvety texture. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. -
Serve:
Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with a swirl of coconut cream and a sprinkle of chopped chilli. Serve with crispy naan bread for dipping and enjoy this aromatic, hearty soup.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) | % Daily Value (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal | |
| Total Fat | 14g | 22% |
| Saturated Fat | 10g | 50% |
| Carbohydrates | 30g | 10% |
| Fiber | 6g | 24% |
| Protein | 2g | 4% |
| Sodium | 250mg | 11% |
| Sugars | 9g |
Allergen Information
- Contains: Coconut (for the coconut cream).
- This recipe is gluten-free and vegetarian.
- It can be adapted for vegan diets by ensuring that the butter used is plant-based.
Dietary Preferences
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-Free (as long as you serve with gluten-free naan or another gluten-free accompaniment)
- Dairy-Free (by substituting the butter with dairy-free alternatives)
- Vegan-Friendly (by using plant-based butter and ensuring the coconut cream is dairy-free)
Helpful Tips & Advice
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of red chillies or omit them altogether. Alternatively, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick without the whole chillies.
- Roast with Herbs: For added depth of flavor, consider roasting the butternut squash with a sprinkle of dried thyme or rosemary. These herbs pair beautifully with the sweetness of the squash.
- Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing.
Conclusion
This Curried Butternut Squash Soup is a perfect balance of flavors—smooth, creamy, with a hint of spice and a subtle sweetness. It’s not only simple to make, but also a deliciously warming dish ideal for any time of the year. Whether served as a light meal or paired with a side of warm naan bread, this soup promises to bring comfort with every spoonful. Enjoy this healthy and satisfying dish, ideal for those looking for a vegetarian, gluten-free, and flavorful option that delivers both heart and heat.
