Creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Soup: A Comforting and Nutritious Dish

Cooking Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings:

• Serves 4

This Creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a comforting and nutritious meal for any occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delicious and wholesome dish!

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 1 apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 4 cups of vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup of coconut milk or other plant-based milk

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• Pumpkin seeds
• A drizzle of coconut milk or olive oil

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
3. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and lightly browned. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

1. Add the chopped carrot and apple to the pot, and cook for 3-5 minutes until they start to soften.
2. Stir in the roasted butternut squash, vegetable broth, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Blend the Soup

1. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
2. Stir in the coconut milk and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, pumpkin seeds, and a drizzle of coconut milk or olive oil.
3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Different Squash: Substitute butternut squash with acorn squash or pumpkin for a variation.
• Protein Boost: Add some cooked lentils or chickpeas to the soup for added protein.

This Creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Soup is a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious and comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for any occasion, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your vegan recipe collection. Enjoy the rich and soothing flavors of this delightful dish. Happy cooking!