01 -
First things first, let’s tackle that butternut squash. Carefully peel it – I find a good swivel peeler is your best friend here. Then, cut it in half lengthwise, scoop out those stringy bits and seeds (you can roast the seeds for a snack later, honestly!). Chop the squash into roughly 1-inch cubes. Toss them with a drizzle of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a grind of black pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until fork-tender and slightly caramelized. This step, I promise, is what gives this creamy butternut squash soup its incredible depth of flavor. Don't skip it!
02 -
While the squash is doing its thing, grab a large pot or Dutch oven. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your finely chopped yellow onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until it's softened and translucent. This is where the kitchen starts to smell amazing! Then, add your minced garlic and grated fresh ginger. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; I've done that before, and it taints the whole pot, oops! This aromatic base is crucial for our creamy butternut squash soup.
03 -
Once your squash is roasted and your aromatics are fragrant, add the roasted butternut squash to the pot with the onion, garlic, and ginger. Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. This allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together. You want the squash to be super tender, practically falling apart, which makes for an easier blend later. I sometimes add a bay leaf here, just for an extra layer of flavor, but remember to take it out before blending!
04 -
Now for the magic! Carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot. Blend until it's completely smooth and creamy. Be super careful with hot liquids in a blender – I once had a lid pop off, and let's just say my kitchen ceiling got a new coat of orange. If using a regular blender, start on low speed and gradually increase. You want this creamy butternut squash soup to be velvety, no lumps allowed!
05 -
Pour the blended soup back into the pot (if you used a regular blender). Stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through gently over low heat; don't boil it once the cream is in. Taste, taste, taste! This is your moment to adjust the salt and black pepper. Maybe a little more salt? A generous grind of fresh pepper? Sometimes I add a tiny pinch of cayenne for a subtle warmth. It's all about what tastes good to you in this creamy butternut squash soup.
06 -
For an extra special touch, heat a small pan with a tiny bit of olive oil. Add a few fresh sage leaves and fry them for about 30 seconds until crispy. They're so delicate and fragrant! Ladle the warm creamy butternut squash soup into bowls. Garnish with those crispy sage leaves, maybe a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and another crack of black pepper. It should look, smell, and taste like pure autumnal comfort. Seriously, it's a showstopper, even if it's just for you!