Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

This Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is a delightful dish that combines creamy textures with the natural sweetness of squash and sweet potatoes. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or using it as a starter for a festive meal, this soup is sure to impress with its vibrant flavor and comforting qualities.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe requires only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights.
• Creamy Texture: The addition of coconut milk gives the soup a rich, creamy consistency without dairy.
• Flavorful Spices: Ground cumin, cinnamon, and chilli add depth and warmth to each spoonful.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it hot or cold, as a main course or side dish—this soup adapts to any occasion.
• Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

To create your soup efficiently, having the right tools is key. Here are some essential items you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Blender or immersion blender
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the soup evenly while providing ample space for all ingredients.
• Blender or immersion blender: Needed to achieve that silky smooth texture that makes this soup so enjoyable.

Ingredients

This butternut squash and sweet potato soup is a quick and delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes. It’s creamy, flavourful, and easy to make—perfect for any meal. Roasting the vegetables is optional but recommended for added depth of flavour.

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

For Flavoring

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

For Cooking Liquid

• 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 Your Ingredients

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

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Squash & Sweet Potatoes

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

Step 4: Season & Simmer

Sprinkle in the ground cumin, cinnamon, chilli powder, chilli flakes, salt, and pepper. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Cover and let simmer for about 20 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Blend Until Smooth

Remove from heat. If you have an immersion blender, blend directly in the pot until smooth; otherwise, carefully transfer batches to a regular blender. Blend until creamy.

Step 6: Stir in Coconut Milk

Return blended soup to the pot (if using a regular blender). Stir in coconut milk until fully combined. Heat through gently if needed before serving.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup!

How to Serve Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

This creamy butternut squash and sweet potato soup is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• A warm, crusty loaf or baguette pairs perfectly with the soup. Dip it into the soup for added flavor.

Topped with Roasted Seeds

• Sprinkle some roasted pumpkin or sunflower seeds on top for a crunchy texture that complements the creaminess of the soup.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh touch that brightens up the flavors.

Served with a Side Salad

• A simple green salad can balance the richness of the soup, making it a complete meal.

Accompanied by Cheese Toasties

• Melted cheese on toasted bread makes for a delicious accompaniment that adds heartiness to your meal.

In a Bread Bowl

• For an inventive serving option, pour the soup into a hollowed-out bread loaf for an edible bowl that’s both fun and tasty.

How to Perfect Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Creating the ideal butternut squash and sweet potato soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you get it just right.

• Roast your vegetables: Roasting enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth of flavor to your soup.

• Adjust spices: Feel free to modify spices according to your taste. Adding more chili powder gives extra heat if desired.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions make a noticeable difference in flavor compared to dried or processed versions.

• Blend thoroughly: For a silky-smooth texture, blend the soup until completely smooth. A high-speed blender works best.

• Taste before serving: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or spices as needed for optimal flavor.

• Cool before freezing: If making in advance, allow the soup to cool completely before storing in containers for freezing.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your butternut squash and sweet potato soup can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for dipping into creamy soups; its buttery garlic flavor complements well.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds freshness alongside the rich soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide extra nutrients and textures.
4. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A melty grilled cheese adds heartiness; consider adding herbs or tomato slices inside for variation.
5. Quinoa Salad: Light yet filling, quinoa mixed with diced veggies offers a nutritious contrast to the creamy soup.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with grains or beans make for an appealing and colorful side dish that’s satisfying.
7. Crispy Kale Chips: These healthy chips add crunch and a slight saltiness that contrasts nicely with the smoothness of the soup.
8. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with butter or sour cream serve as a comforting complement to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Boldly ignore peeling: Not peeling the butternut squash and sweet potatoes can lead to a gritty texture in your soup. Always peel these vegetables for a smoother consistency.

• Rushing the cooking process: Cooking the onions and garlic too quickly can cause bitterness. Take your time to sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant for a better flavor base.

• Overlooking seasoning: Failing to adjust seasoning can leave your soup bland. Taste as you go, adding salt and pepper gradually until you reach the desired flavor.

• Skipping roasting: While optional, skipping the roasting step can reduce the depth of flavor. If you have time, roast the vegetables for a richer taste.

• Neglecting stock choices: Using water instead of vegetable or chicken stock may result in a less flavorful soup. Choose a good quality stock for better taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Can be kept for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

• Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup vegan?

You can easily make this recipe vegan by ensuring all ingredients are plant-based, including using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Can I use other vegetables in this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with carrots or parsnips for added sweetness or flavor.

How can I customize Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup?

You can add spices like nutmeg or herbs such as thyme for different flavor profiles. Top with toasted seeds or herbs for garnish!

What is the best way to store leftovers of Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze portions for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Easy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with various spices or toppings based on your preferences. Give it a try; it’s perfect for any meal!