Squash Soup with Curry
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
A comforting and flavorful squash soup infused with aromatic curry spices, perfect for warming up on chilly days.
This squash soup with curry is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect choice for a cozy meal. The warmth of curry adds a unique twist that elevates the rich, creamy texture of the squash.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A harmonious blend of sweetness and spice
- Creamy texture that delights the palate
- Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
The Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. It is rich in vitamins A and C, which are important for maintaining healthy skin and boosting your immune system. Additionally, squash is a great source of fiber, helping to support digestion and keep you feeling full longer. Including butternut squash in your diet can contribute to overall health and wellness, making this soup not only a comforting dish but also a nourishing choice.
The natural sweetness of butternut squash pairs beautifully with the warm spices of curry, creating a delightful balance of flavors. This makes it an ideal ingredient for soups, as it blends well and adds depth to the overall taste. Plus, its vibrant orange hue makes the soup visually appealing, enticing both the eyes and the palate.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This squash soup with curry is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various settings. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, this soup is sure to impress. It can be served as a starter or a main course, and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad, making it a perfect addition to any table.
Moreover, this soup can be easily adapted to suit different dietary needs. It’s vegan and gluten-free, making it accessible to a wider audience. You can also customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of curry powder or adding ingredients like chili flakes for an extra kick.
Meal Prep Made Easy
One of the best aspects of this squash soup is its suitability for meal prepping. You can make a large batch at once, store portions in the refrigerator or freezer, and have delicious, homemade soup ready whenever you need it. This saves time on busy days and ensures you always have a nutritious meal on hand.
To store, simply let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the fridge for up to a week and can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
These ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful soup that is both nourishing and satisfying.
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the Squash and Spices
Stir in the cubed butternut squash and curry powder, cooking for about 2-3 minutes to toast the spices.
Pour in Broth
Add the vegetable broth to the pot, bringing it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it in batches to a regular blender.
Finish with Coconut Milk
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Serve the soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a swirl of coconut milk for an extra touch.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your squash soup, consider garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, for a burst of color and added freshness. A drizzle of coconut milk on top can also enhance the creamy texture and provide a lovely visual contrast. For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, adding toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons can provide a delightful texture that complements the smoothness of the soup.
Pair this soup with a light salad, such as arugula with a lemon vinaigrette, to create a balanced meal. The peppery notes of the arugula can cut through the richness of the soup, making each bite satisfying.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding other vegetables to enhance the flavor profile. Carrots, sweet potatoes, or even red lentils can be great additions that complement the butternut squash while boosting the nutritional value. You can also try different types of curry, such as Thai red curry or garam masala, to give the soup a unique twist.
If you want to add protein to your soup, consider incorporating cooked chickpeas or shredded chicken. Both options will make the soup heartier, making it a perfect main dish for lunch or dinner.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, storing them correctly can ensure that your squash soup maintains its delicious flavor and creamy texture. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerated, it can last up to a week, and frozen portions can be enjoyed for up to three months.
When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This way, you can savor the comforting flavors of this delicious squash soup long after you've made it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can use pumpkin or acorn squash as alternatives.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this recipe is entirely vegan-friendly.
→ How can I make it spicier?
Add more curry powder or a dash of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, it freezes well! Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Squash Soup with Curry
A comforting and flavorful squash soup infused with aromatic curry spices, perfect for warming up on chilly days.
Created by: Helena Wright
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
Stir in the cubed butternut squash and curry powder, cooking for about 2-3 minutes to toast the spices.
Add the vegetable broth to the pot, bringing it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, you can transfer it in batches to a regular blender.
Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 3g