I love soups and fall flavors as they often bring squash and pumpkin to the table.
The base of this soup is butternut squash which is rich in beta carotene (vitamin A), folate, potassium, and vitamin C, as well as numerous antioxidants that are known for their anti-inflammatory benefits. It is easy to make, delicious, and nutritious!
Ingredients:
2 pounds of cubed butternut squash (easier than cutting it yourself!)
1 large Granny Smith apple
1/2 Spanish onion
3 Tbsp of organic butter or organic coconut oil
3 1/2 cups of organic low sodium chicken or vegetable stock
1/2 cup of organic heavy cream
1 Tbsp of organic honey
1/8 tsp of ground cloves
1/4 tsp of cinnamon
1 tsp of himalayan salt and more to taste
1/2 tsp of organic pepper and more to taste
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees and arrange the cut squash on a shallow baking pan. Melt the butter or coconut oil and use two thirds of the fat mixture to coat the butternut squash. Season with both salt and pepper and roast the squash in the oven for approximately 45-60 minutes, turning frequently to avoid burning. The squash should be soft before removing from the oven.
While the squash is cooking, cut both the onion and apple into small pieces. In a saucepan over a medium heat, use the remaining fat (butter or coconut oil) and sauté the apples and onions for several minutes. Stir in, salt, pepper, cloves and cinnamon.
Combine the squash and apple/onion mixture into a large pot and pour in the chicken or vegetable stock. Over a low heat, allow the flavors to blend for about 10 minutes. Slowly stir in the heavy cream and honey (optional for those avoiding sugar) and continue to simmer for a couple of minutes.
Next using a blender, puree the ingredients in batches until it is smooth in texture. Remember to remove the small cap of the blender to allow heat to escape but cover with a towel so there isn’t a big mess!
If needed return the puree to a large saucepan and simmer over a low heat, adding additional salt and pepper to taste. If the puree is too thick, add 1/2 cup of vegetable or chicken stock.
Enjoy!