Squash Soup with Curry
Highlighted under: Global Flavors
A warm and comforting bowl of squash soup infused with aromatic curry spices, perfect for chilly days.
This squash soup with curry is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. The creamy texture of the squash, combined with the spices of curry, creates a savory experience that is both nourishing and satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and velvety texture that’s incredibly comforting
- The warm spices of curry elevate the natural sweetness of the squash
- Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
The Health Benefits of Squash
Butternut squash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. It's an excellent source of vitamins A and C, both of which are vital for maintaining healthy vision and boosting the immune system. Additionally, the fiber content in squash supports digestive health, making this soup a nutritious choice for your meals.
Incorporating squash into your diet can also help in weight management. Its low-calorie count combined with high fiber content keeps you feeling full longer, reducing the urge to snack between meals. This makes our squash soup an ideal option for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying comforting food.
The Versatility of Curry
Curry powder, a blend of spices, not only brings warmth and depth to this soup but also offers numerous health benefits. Turmeric, a key ingredient in many curry blends, contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This means that enjoying a bowl of our squash soup could contribute to reducing inflammation in the body.
Moreover, the diverse spices found in curry can enhance digestion and boost metabolism. By adding curry to your meals, you can enjoy both flavor and potential health perks. This soup is a perfect way to introduce these beneficial spices into your diet, especially during the colder months.
Perfect Pairings
This squash soup pairs beautifully with a variety of sides, making it a flexible choice for lunch or dinner. For a light meal, serve it alongside a crisp green salad topped with nuts and a tangy vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the rich creaminess of the soup perfectly.
For a heartier option, consider serving the soup with warm crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. The contrast of textures and flavors will make for a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out, ideal for those chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Squash Soup with Curry
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
These ingredients will create a flavorful and creamy soup that is perfect for any occasion.
Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Cook the Squash
Add the cubed butternut squash and curry powder to the pot, stirring to coat the squash in the spices. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Add the Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Blend the Soup
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and mix it back in.
Stir in Coconut Milk
Add the coconut milk to the blended soup, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of coconut milk if desired.
Enjoy your delicious bowl of squash soup with curry, perfect for any time of the year!
Storage Tips
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is crucial to maintaining freshness. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and label with the date. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove until warmed through.
Customization Ideas
Feel free to personalize this squash soup to suit your taste preferences. You can add a squeeze of lime juice for a touch of acidity or sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Experimenting with different herbs, like cilantro or parsley, can also elevate the flavor profile.
For a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked lentils or chickpeas to the soup. This not only boosts the protein content but also adds a lovely texture. You can also substitute the coconut milk with almond or cashew cream for a different flavor twist while keeping it creamy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can use other types like acorn squash or pumpkin, but cooking times may vary.
→ Is this soup vegan?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth and check the coconut milk ingredients.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.
→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers will typically last 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.
Squash Soup with Curry
A warm and comforting bowl of squash soup infused with aromatic curry spices, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Lucy Bennett
Recipe Type: Global Flavors
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Squash Soup with Curry
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon curry powder
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
Add the cubed butternut squash and curry powder to the pot, stirring to coat the squash in the spices. Cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and mix it back in.
Add the coconut milk to the blended soup, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of coconut milk if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 4g