Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy night in or hosting friends for dinner, this creamy, flavorful soup is sure to impress. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a bowl of comfort that’s both nutritious and delicious. The optional roasting of the vegetables adds a depth of flavor that makes this recipe unique, ensuring it stands out on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking, you can have a warm meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful: The combination of butternut squash and sweet potatoes creates a rich, creamy texture that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.
• Versatile: Perfect as a starter or main dish, this soup can be enjoyed any time of year.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and store it for later! This soup freezes well, making it easy to enjoy on busy days.
• Healthy Option: Packed with vitamins and fiber, this soup is both nourishing and low in calories.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the essential tools you’ll need to prepare this soup. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Blender or immersion blender

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Blender or immersion blender: Essential for achieving that creamy texture which makes the soup so delightful.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 small butternut squash (about 700-900g or 2-3 cups) (peeled and chopped)
• 2 sweet potatoes (about 275g or 2 cups) (peeled and chopped)
• 1 yellow onion (sliced)
• 3 cloves garlic (peeled)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 400 ml tin full fat coconut milk (reserve 2 tablespoons for serving)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon chili flakes
• 750 ml vegetable or chicken stock or water
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by peeling and chopping the butternut squash and sweet potatoes into even-sized pieces. Slice the yellow onion and peel the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced onion. Sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the chopped butternut squash and sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir in ground cumin, cinnamon, chili powder, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Add Liquid

Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock (or water) until all ingredients are covered. Bring to a boil over high heat.

Step 5: Simmer

Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until the squash and sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Blend Until Smooth

Using an immersion blender or transferring batches to a regular blender, blend until smooth. If needed, adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls and finish with a drizzle of reserved coconut milk on top before serving. Enjoy your hearty bowl of Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup!

How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

This creamy and flavorful soup can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy dinner or a festive gathering, these suggestions will elevate your meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A sourdough or baguette complements the soup beautifully.

Topped with Coconut Cream

• Drizzle a bit of reserved coconut milk on top before serving. It adds a creamy finish and enhances the flavor.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley on top. This adds freshness and a pop of color to your dish.

Paired with Salad

• Serve alongside a light salad for a balanced meal. A simple spinach salad with vinaigrette works well.

With Cheese Croutons

• Add cheese croutons for extra crunch and flavor. Toast some bread, add cheese, and bake until crispy.

As Part of a Platter

• Include the soup in a larger platter with other small dishes. This makes for an inviting spread at gatherings.

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How to Perfect Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

To ensure your soup turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Roast the Vegetables: Roasting the butternut squash and sweet potatoes enhances their sweetness and adds depth of flavor.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup as it simmers. Adjust spices like cumin and chili to fit your taste preferences.

• Blend Thoroughly: For a smooth texture, blend the soup until completely creamy. Use an immersion blender or regular blender.

• Add More Liquid If Needed: If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable or chicken stock to reach your desired consistency.

• Store Properly: Cool down leftovers quickly and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for longer storage.

• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like roasted pumpkin seeds or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with this comforting soup can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent side options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for dipping into the soup’s creamy goodness.

2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup nicely.

3. Cheese Platter: Offer an assortment of cheeses that guests can enjoy alongside the warm soup.

4. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats are flavorful and make an excellent appetizer before diving into the soup.

5. Quinoa Salad: A hearty quinoa salad adds protein and fiber, making it a wholesome complement to your meal.

6. Roasted Veggies: Roasted seasonal vegetables enhance the meal’s overall flavors while being nutritious.

7. Flatbread: Warm flatbreads can be used to scoop up the soup, adding another layer of texture to each bite.

8. Savory Scones: Cheese or herb scones provide a hearty side that pairs well with soups and stews alike.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup, it’s common to overlook key steps. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring vegetable prep: Make sure to peel and chop your butternut squash and sweet potatoes evenly. This ensures they cook uniformly, giving you a creamy texture.

• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your soup properly with salt and pepper. Taste as you go to find that perfect balance of flavors.

• Not blending enough: If you want a smooth soup, blend it thoroughly. A few lumps can affect the texture. Blend until silky!

• Overcooking or undercooking: Stick to the recommended cooking time of 30 minutes. Overcooked vegetables can become mushy, while undercooked ones will be hard.

• Using low-quality stock: The stock significantly impacts flavor. Use homemade or high-quality vegetable or chicken stock for the best results.

• Forgetting about garnishes: Add a swirl of coconut milk or fresh herbs before serving for an eye-catching presentation and extra flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

• Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can last for about 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.

• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a collection of common questions regarding Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup.

Can I make Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses coconut milk instead of dairy.

How do I customize Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup?

Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth. You can also mix in other veggies like carrots or parsnips.

What should I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches for a hearty meal.

How long does it take to make Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup?

The total time is just about 40 minutes, including preparation and cooking time, making it a quick option!

Final Thoughts

Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different spices or add-ins based on your preference. Enjoy its creamy texture and warm flavors on any occasion—it’s sure to please everyone!