This Velvety Butternut Squash Soup is a perfect blend of cozy and comforting flavors that brighten up any chilly day. It's creamy, rich, and packed with aromatic spices, making it a delightful treat for your taste buds.
Olive oil serves as the base for sautéing, adding a subtle richness to the soup. Onion and garlic bring a savory depth that enhances the sweetness of the squash. The star of the show, butternut squash, provides a naturally creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor. Carrots complement the squash with additional sweetness and nutrients. Vegetable broth is the liquid that binds all the flavors together. A blend of cumin, cinnamon, and nutmeg adds warmth and complexity. Finally, coconut milk gives the soup its velvety finish, while fresh thyme adds a pop of freshness as a garnish.
This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty sourdough bread or a simple green salad. It also works well as a starter for a larger meal.
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, letting them sauté until they turn translucent and aromatic, which should take about 5 minutes.
Next, add your cubed butternut squash and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir them around and let them cook for another 5 minutes. This helps to start the caramelization process, enhancing their natural sweetness.
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let the vegetables cook until tender. This should take about 20 minutes, giving you time to prepare any sides or set the table.
Once the veggies are soft, stir in the ground cumin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and season with salt and pepper. These spices will infuse the soup with a cozy aroma and flavor.
Now, it's time to blend. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot for ease, or, if you prefer, transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Return the soup to the pot (if you've used a countertop blender) and stir in the coconut milk. Heat the soup through again, making sure everything is well combined.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme to serve.