Warm up your kitchen with a bowl of Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Crispy Sage. This soup is all about rich flavors and cozy vibes. You’ll learn how to roast butternut squash to perfect caramelization and make crispy sage that adds a lovely crunch. Whether you want it creamy or dairy-free, this recipe has options to suit everyone. Let’s dive into the deliciousness together!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
– 12 fresh sage leaves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup coconut milk (optional, for a creamy texture)
Roasting the butternut squash creates a rich flavor. It pairs well with spices. Onion and garlic add depth. The cumin and nutmeg give warmth to the soup. Don’t forget salt and pepper; they enhance all the flavors. For a special touch, the crispy sage adds a great texture. If you want a creamy soup, the coconut milk works wonders. Each ingredient plays a role in making this soup cozy and delicious. Enjoy mixing these fresh ingredients for a warm bowl of goodness.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Butternut Squash
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– On a large baking sheet, mix the cubed butternut squash, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, ground cumin, and nutmeg. Toss well to coat everything evenly. Spread the mixture in a single layer for even roasting.
– Roast for 25-30 minutes, until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.
Making the Crispy Sage
– In a small skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
– Carefully add the sage leaves when the butter melts. Sauté them for about 1-2 minutes until they turn crispy and fragrant.
– Use a slotted spoon to transfer the crispy sage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess butter.
Blending the Soup
– Once the squash is done roasting, transfer the mixture to a large saucepan.
– Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
– Blend the soup with an immersion blender until it is smooth and velvety. If you want a creamier texture, stir in the coconut milk at this point and blend again.
– Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Heat through for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
– Ladle the warm soup into bowls and top with crispy sage leaves for added texture and flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Roasting Process
To get that sweet caramelization, start with a hot oven at 400°F. Cut the squash into 1-inch cubes. This size helps them cook evenly and brown nicely. Spread the cubes out on a baking sheet. Don’t crowd them. This step is key for even cooking. Stir halfway through to ensure all sides get that lovely color.
Customizing Flavor Profiles
Feel free to adjust the spices. Cumin and nutmeg add warmth, but you can try cinnamon or paprika for a twist. For the garnish, use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary if you prefer. This gives a different flavor that pairs well with the soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup in deep bowls for a cozy feel. Drizzle some extra virgin olive oil on top. This adds richness and a nice shine. You can also sprinkle roasted pumpkin seeds for crunch. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad to complete the meal. Enjoy your warm bowl of soup!
Variations
Creamy vs. Dairy-Free Options
You can make this soup creamy or keep it dairy-free. For a creamy soup, add coconut milk. This gives a rich taste without dairy. You can also use almond milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free twist. These options keep the soup smooth and tasty.
Additional Flavor Add-ins
Want to spice things up? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. This gives your soup a nice kick. You can also try adding seasonal veggies like carrots or apples. They add a sweet twist and more nutrients.
Substitutions for Key Ingredients
Don’t have butternut squash? Use sweet potatoes or pumpkin instead. Both give a similar flavor and texture. For broth, use chicken broth if you prefer. It adds a different depth to the soup. Experiment with what you have on hand!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your soup fresh, store leftovers in a glass or plastic container. Allow the soup to cool down first. Cover it tightly to avoid exposure to air. This helps prevent spoilage.
For freezing, use freezer-safe bags or containers. Leave some space at the top of the container. Soups expand when frozen. Label the bags with the date. Your soup can last up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
The best way to reheat is on the stove. Pour the soup into a pot over low heat. Stir often to keep it from burning. This helps maintain the flavor and texture.
If you use a microwave, place the soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This prevents hot spots. Aim for about 2 to 3 minutes of total heating time. Enjoy your warm, cozy soup!
FAQs
Can I use frozen butternut squash?
Yes, you can use frozen butternut squash. It saves time and is easy to use. Just thaw and add it directly to your pot. The flavor will still be great. However, fresh squash has a better texture when roasted.
How long does Roasted Butternut Squash Soup last in the fridge?
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Make sure to let the soup cool before sealing it.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make this soup in advance. It tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge after it cools. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
What can I serve with Roasted Butternut Squash Soup?
You can serve this soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Grilled cheese sandwiches pair well too. Adding a sprinkle of roasted pumpkin seeds on top adds nice crunch. Enjoy this warm soup with your favorite sides!
This blog post explored how to make a tasty Roasted Butternut Squash Soup. You learned the key ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and tips for perfecting the dish. I shared ways to customize flavors and variations, from creamy to dairy-free options. Storing and reheating tips help you keep leftovers fresh. With these guidelines, you can create a delicious meal that warms the heart. Enjoy experimenting and serving this dish to family and friends!
