Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is the perfect dish for any occasion. Ready in just 30 minutes, this creamy and flavorful soup warms you up on chilly days. Its versatility makes it suitable for casual dinners or festive gatherings. With an optional roasting step, you can add even more depth to the flavor, making it a standout choice for your fall recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 10 minutes of prep time, you can create a wholesome meal.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of coconut milk gives the soup a rich and creamy consistency.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of spices like cumin and cinnamon elevates the taste profile.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main course or as a starter at dinner parties.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup, you’ll need some essential tools that will help you along the way.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Large pot or saucepan
• Blender or immersion blender
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Large pot or saucepan: Essential for cooking the soup evenly without crowding.
• Blender or immersion blender: Helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture that makes this soup irresistible.

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)

For Flavoring

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 400 ml tin full fat coconut milk (reserve two tablespoons for serving)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon chilli powder
• 1 teaspoon chilli flakes

For Cooking

• 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 Vegetables

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

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Toss in the garlic cloves, cooking them for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Vegetables

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

Step 4: Add Spices and Stock

Sprinkle in ground cumin, cinnamon, chilli powder, and chilli flakes.
Pour in your vegetable or chicken stock, ensuring all vegetables are submerged.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Cook Until Tender

Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Blend Until Smooth

Remove from heat.
Use an immersion blender directly in the pot or transfer batches to a standard blender.
Blend until smooth; return to pot if using a standard blender.

Step 7: Final Touches

Stir in coconut milk for creaminess.
Serve hot, garnished with reserved coconut milk if desired. Enjoy your delicious Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup!

How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Serving Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup can elevate your meal experience. This creamy soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy the soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread’s texture complements the creamy soup beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.

Add a Drizzle of Coconut Milk

• For an extra touch, drizzle some reserved coconut milk on top before serving. It enhances the creaminess and adds visual appeal.

Serve with a Side Salad

• Pair the soup with a light side salad. A simple greens salad balances the richness of the soup and adds crunch.

Accompany with Cheese Toasties

• Make cheese toasties to serve alongside. The gooey cheese contrasts nicely with the soup’s smooth texture.

Top with Nuts or Seeds

• Sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or walnuts on top for added crunch. This gives the soup more texture and flavor complexity.

How to Perfect Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

To make your Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup even better, follow these expert tips for perfection.

• Roast Your Vegetables: Roasting enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the flavor profile.
• Use Fresh Spices: Freshly ground spices provide stronger flavors compared to pre-ground varieties.
• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of stock or add less coconut milk.
• Blend Well: A high-speed blender will create a smoother texture, making your soup velvety.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup for seasoning adjustments; add salt or spices as needed.
• Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A splash of lemon juice just before serving brightens up the flavors significantly.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Complement your Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup with delightful side dishes that enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of your delicious soup.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad adds protein and a variety of textures to your meal.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or cheese pair wonderfully alongside the warm soup.
4. Roasted Veggies: Serve an assortment of roasted vegetables for added nutrition and flavor balance.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can be a delightful addition, offering rich flavors that complement the soup.
6. Savory Scones: Consider serving homemade scones infused with herbs or cheese; they make for a hearty pairing.
7. Pita Chips: Crunchy pita chips offer a fun way to enjoy your soup while adding an enjoyable textural contrast.
8. Fruit Compote: A small bowl of tangy fruit compote can brighten up your meal and cleanse the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here’s what to avoid:

• ingredient choices: Using low-quality or old ingredients can ruin your soup. Always select fresh vegetables for the best flavor.
• skipping roasting: Not roasting your squash and sweet potatoes may lead to a less flavorful soup. Consider roasting for a deeper taste.
• neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can result in bland soup. Taste and adjust seasonings as you cook to enhance flavor.
• improper blending: Over-blending can make the soup too thin. Blend just enough for a creamy texture while retaining some chunks.
• ignoring storage tips: Not storing soup properly can lead to spoilage. Follow storage instructions carefully to keep your soup fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It stays good for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring between each.
• Stovetop: Gently heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup:

Can I use other vegetables?

You can add carrots or parsnips for extra flavor. Just ensure they are chopped evenly for consistent cooking.

Is this Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is completely vegan, thanks to the use of coconut milk instead of dairy.

How do I thicken my soup?

If you want a thicker consistency, blend more of the mixture or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after resting, so feel free to make it in advance.

Final Thoughts

Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is a delightful meal that offers warmth and comfort. It’s versatile, allowing for personal touches like adding spices or garnishes. Give it a try; you may discover your new favorite fall recipe!