Butternut and apple soup
As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of butternut and apple soup to bring warmth and comfort to your table. This delightful soup is a favorite during the autumn and winter seasons, offering a perfect blend of flavors that celebrate the bounty of fall. Combining the earthy sweetness of butternut squash with the tart crispness of apples, this vibrant and inviting dish is ideal for sharing with family and friends.One of the joys of colder weather is the opportunity to enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals that nourish both body and soul. Butternut and apple soup is a quintessential example of this, providing a heartwarming treat after a brisk walk in the cold, crisp winter air or a leisurely stroll through the misty autumn landscape. Its rich, golden hue adds a burst of color to any meal, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.This soup is not only a feast for the senses but also a nutritious option that’s easy to prepare. The butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, while the apples add a dose of fiber and antioxidants. The combination is enhanced by a medley of warming spices such as cinnamon and a touch of ginger, creating a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and invigorating.Gathering around the table with a bowl of butternut and apple soup is a wonderful way to bring people together. Whether you're hosting an intimate dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this soup is sure to be a hit. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a starter to a larger meal or enjoyed as a light main course, especially when paired with crusty bread or a fresh salad.In addition to its delightful taste and health benefits, butternut and apple soup is a breeze to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend cooking. The aroma of the soup simmering on the stove is enough to draw everyone to the kitchen, eager for a taste.In conclusion, butternut and apple soup is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of the season. Its heartwarming qualities, combined with its ease of preparation and nutritional benefits, make it a staple for autumn and winter dining. Serve it to family and friends, and let the flavors of the season create lasting memories around your table.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp canola oil
- 1 large onion, peeled, chopped
- 1 kg butternut cubes
- 4 apples, peeled, cored, cubed I like to use granny smith apples
- 1 piece fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
- 750 ml chicken stock
- 250 ml apple juice
- 0.5 tsp dried chili flakes
- 1 cinnamon stick or 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- salt and pepper to taste
- 60 ml quince jelly
- 90 g Greek yoghurt optional
Instructions
- Heat the Canola Oil: Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of canola oil in a large pot over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm up until it shimmers, indicating it's hot enough to start cooking.
- Fry the Onions: Add the chopped onion to the pot. Fry the onions, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn golden brown around the edges. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The browning process helps to develop a deep, rich flavor in the soup.
- Add Butternut and Apples: Once the onions are nicely browned, add the cubed butternut squash and chopped apples to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
- Add Ginger, Liquids Spices: Stir in the minced ginger, then pour in 3 cups of chicken stock and 1 cup of apple juice. Add 1/2 teaspoon of chili flakes and 1 cinnamon stock or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
- Blend the Soup: After 30 minutes, check that the butternut squash and apples are soft. Add 2 tablespoons of quince jelly, which will add a subtle sweetness and help thicken the soup. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until it’s smooth and velvety. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Check the Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. For an extra touch of creaminess, add a dollop of Greek yogurt on top of each serving. This step is optional but highly recommended for its tangy contrast to the sweet and savory flavors of the soup.
- Enjoy your delightful, warming butternut and apple soup, perfect for those crisp autumn and winter days!