Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is a delightful and nourishing dish that everyone will love. It’s quick to make, taking only about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this soup serves as a comforting meal suitable for any occasion. You’ll appreciate how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of butternut squash and sweet potatoes creates an incredibly delicious base that’s further enhanced by spices.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for later, ensuring you have a warm meal ready whenever you need it.
• Vegan Option Available: This recipe can easily be made vegan by using vegetable stock and keeping the coconut milk as the only dairy element.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to make things smoother in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Large pot
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: A blender is crucial for achieving that smooth, creamy texture in your soup.
• Large Pot: Use a large pot to comfortably cook all your ingredients without overcrowding, allowing even cooking.

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)

Spices and Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon chilli flakes

Liquid Base

• 750 ml vegetable or chicken stock or water

To Taste

• Salt and pepper

How to Make Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by peeling and chopping the butternut squash and sweet potatoes into uniform pieces. Slice the onion and peel the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced onion and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic cloves for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Squash and Sweet Potatoes

Add the chopped butternut squash and sweet potatoes into the pot.
Stir well to combine with onions and garlic.

Step 4: Season Your Soup

Sprinkle in the ground cumin, cinnamon, chilli powder, chilli flakes, salt, and pepper.
Mix everything together so that the spices coat the vegetables evenly.

Step 5: Pour in Stock

Add your chosen stock or water into the pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing to a simmer. Cover partially with a lid.

Step 6: Cook Until Tender

Let everything cook for about 20 minutes or until both squash and sweet potatoes are tender enough to easily pierce with a fork.

Step 7: Blend Until Smooth

Once cooked, remove from heat.
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer soup in batches to a countertop blender. Blend until creamy.

Step 8: Finish with Coconut Milk

Stir in most of the reserved coconut milk into your blended soup.
Adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot with an extra drizzle of coconut milk on top.

How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Serving your Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens the soup.
• Parsley Sprinkles: A classic choice that brings a touch of color and freshness.

With Crunchy Toppings

• Toasted Pumpkin Seeds: They provide a nutty crunch that complements the creamy texture.
• Croutons: Add some store-bought or homemade croutons for an extra crunch.

With Drizzles

• Coconut Milk Swirl: A drizzle of reserved coconut milk adds creaminess and visual appeal.
• Balsamic Glaze: A sweet-tangy finish that enhances the flavors beautifully.

With Bread

• Warm Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up every bit of delicious soup.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness pairs perfectly with the soup’s richness.

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How to Perfect Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

To ensure your Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Roast Your Veggies: Roasting the squash and sweet potatoes before blending enhances their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go. You may want to add more salt or spices according to your preference.
• Blend Until Smooth: For a creamy texture, ensure you blend the soup thoroughly; use an immersion blender for convenience.
• Store Properly: This soup is freezer-friendly! Store in airtight containers for easy reheating later on.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Classic comfort food that provides a satisfying crunch alongside the creamy soup.
3. Quinoa Salad: Nutritious and filling, this dish adds texture and protein to your meal.
4. Stuffed Peppers: These can be made ahead of time and offer a hearty complement to the soup.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil make a colorful side that pairs well.
6. Pita Chips with Hummus: Crunchy pita chips served with hummus for dipping add fun textures.

These serving suggestions, tips, and side dishes will help you enjoy your Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup even more!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch for.

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the squash and sweet potatoes too long can make them mushy. Keep an eye on the timer and check for tenderness.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Not adding enough spices can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go, and adjust seasonings to enhance flavor.
• Using Low-Quality Stock: A poor stock can ruin the soup’s taste. Choose a high-quality vegetable or chicken stock for the best results.
• Skipping the Roasting Step: Roasting adds depth of flavor. If time allows, roast your vegetables before blending.
• Not Blending Enough: Failing to blend thoroughly can leave chunks in your soup. Blend until smooth for a creamy texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can last up to 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.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, this soup is naturally vegan when made with vegetable stock and coconut milk.

How do I make my soup thicker?

You can blend more or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with cold water to thicken it up.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate carrots or parsnips for added flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is not only quick to prepare but also versatile. You can customize it with various spices or additional veggies based on your taste. We encourage you to give it a try!