Smokey Butternut Squash Soup A Velvety, Comforting
Smokey Butternut Squash Soup is a creamy, velvety soup with sweet and smoky flavor.It combines roasted squash with aromatics, broth, and warming spices.The soup is comforting, seasonal, and ideal for autumn or winter meals.Its smooth texture makes it feel rich while still being wholesome and light.Perfect as a starter or main course, it pairs well with bread or salad.This recipe offers a delicious twist on classic butternut squash soup.
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon chipotle powder or a small amount of chopped chipotle in adobo
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup coconut milk or heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup, optional
- Pumpkin seeds or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking tray and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Roast for 25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
- In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, garlic, and carrot, and cook until softened.
- Add the roasted squash and broth, then bring to a simmer for 10 minutes.
- Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
- Stir in the coconut milk or cream, maple syrup if using, and lemon juice.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, then serve hot with garnish.
Notes
- Roasting the squash enhances sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Smoked paprika gives the soup its signature smoky character.
- Coconut milk makes the soup dairy-free and silky.
- Heavy cream creates a richer and more classic texture.
- Chipotle adds heat as well as smokiness, so adjust carefully.
- A little acid at the end brightens the flavor beautifully.
- The soup can be made thicker or thinner by adjusting the broth.
- It is an excellent make-ahead option for busy days or gatherings.