Embark on a culinary adventure with our Acorn Squash Soup, a velvety potion of autumnal bliss! Roast sweet acorn squash until it caramelizes to perfection, unlocking a symphony of flavors. Blend it into a silky-smooth purée, swirling in a dash of creamy coconut milk for an exotic twist. Infuse with a hint of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup, balancing the savory with a touch of sweetness. Garnish with a sprinkle of toasted pepitas and a swirl of cream. Dive into this bowl of fall harvest magic, a warm hug for your taste buds!
Experience the symphony of seasonal flavors with our Acorn Squash Soup, a mouthwatering wonder that encapsulates the essence of autumn. This velvety delight, starring the robust acorn squash, is a taste adventure to cherish.
This dish highlights the uniqueness of acorn squash, transforming it into a warming brew of unmatched quality blended to perfection with carefully selected ingredients.
A masterpiece in a bowl, it offers an exquisite escape to a realm of culinary delight. Our Acorn Squash Soup provides an enchanting exploration of taste and texture for the seasoned gourmand or the enthusiastic home cook.
Discover this rustic treasure, and let it become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. Savor the autumnal allure, one spoonful at a time.
What Is Acorn Squash Soup?
Acorn Squash Soup is a heartwarming, savory dish made from pureed acorn squash, a type of winter squash with sweet, nutty flesh. The soup boasts a velvety texture and a rich, earthy flavor profile.
It’s often combined with a medley of spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, onions, and garlic.
The result is a comforting, nourishing blend that embodies the essence of autumn. Acorn Squash Soup is a cherished staple during the colder months, perfect for cozy nights indoors.
Can You Vary The Acorn Squash Soup With Other Ingredients?
Acorn Squash Soup can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences:
- Keto Opt for a high-fat, low-carb liquid like heavy or coconut cream. Reduce high-carb ingredients like onions and skip any sugar.
- Paleo Make sure to use homemade broth to avoid any non-paleo additives. You can use coconut milk as a dairy substitute and avoid using processed sugar for sweetness – a little apple might do the trick.
- Gluten-Free This soup is gluten-free as long as the broth is also gluten-free. Always check labels when using store-bought broth.
- Whole30 Use ghee instead of butter, and ensure the broth is Whole30-compliant. Avoid any form of sugar.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a creamy texture, coconut milk or almond milk can replace cream. If the recipe calls for honey, vegans can substitute maple syrup or date paste.
Recipe Directions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the small onion and chopped celery, sautéing them until they become tender and fragrant.
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour, chicken bouillon granules, dill weed, curry powder, and cayenne pepper into the pot. Mix well, ensuring the vegetables are coated with the flour and spices.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth and evaporated milk, stirring continuously to combine all the ingredients. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together, and the soup slightly thickens.
- Now it’s time to add the star ingredient – the mashed cooked acorn squash. Along with the squash, add salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Continue heating the soup over low heat until thoroughly heated, ensuring all the flavors are well blended.
- Transfer the soup to a blender and process it until it reaches a smooth consistency for a smooth and creamy texture. Be careful when blending hot liquids, as they can create steam pressure in the blender. Consider mixing in batches if necessary.
- Once the soup is smooth, it’s time to serve! Ladle the delicious Acorn Squash Soup into bowls and garnish each serving with crispy bacon strips for added flavor and visual appeal.
Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings
Variations
- Sweet Version: Add maple syrup or honey for a sweet spin, and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Creamy Version: Swirl in coconut milk or heavy cream for a lush, velvety texture.
- Spicy Version: Include a dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of chipotle paste for heat.
Add-Ons and Toppings
- Protein: Enhance heartiness by adding shredded chicken or crispy tofu cubes.
- Crunch: Pepitas (pumpkin seeds), croutons, or roasted chickpeas lend a pleasing crunch.
- Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives can brighten the soup’s flavor.
- Cheese: A handful of grated Parmesan or crumbled goat cheese adds a savory touch.
- Cream: A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream offers a tangy counterpoint.
Can I Make Acorn Squash Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?
Acorn Squash Soup can be adapted to slow cooker and Instant Pot methods.
Slow Cooker
- Add chopped acorn squash, onions, celery, spices, and broth into the slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the squash is tender.
- Once cooked, use an immersion blender or transfer to a standing blender to puree until smooth.
- Add milk or cream, stir well, and adjust seasonings to taste.
Instant Pot
- Using the sauté function, cook the onions, celery, and spices in the pot with some oil until softened.
- Add the squash and broth, then secure the lid.
- Cook on high pressure for 8-10 minutes, then use the quick-release function.
- After the pressure is released, open the lid and blend the soup until smooth with an immersion blender or in batches with a standing blender.
- Stir in the milk or cream, adjust the seasonings, and it’s ready to serve.
Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?
You can use store-bought or homemade broth in your Acorn Squash Soup. Both have their advantages:
Store-Bought Broth
- This is a convenient and time-saving option, perfect for quick meals or when you don’t have homemade broth.
- It provides consistent flavor and is available in low-sodium, organic, or flavored varieties. Always check the ingredients to ensure it meets your dietary requirements.
Homemade Broth
- Making broth at home allows you to control the ingredients and flavors fully. You can create a rich, deep flavor by simmering bones, vegetables, and herbs.
- Homemade broth is often healthier, as it’s free from additives and can be lower in sodium.
How To Serve?
- Serving Bowls: Use deep, wide bowls to keep the soup warm longer. Pre-warming the bowls in the oven can also help maintain the soup’s temperature.
- Garnishes: Enhance the soup’s visual appeal and taste with a dollop of cream, crumbled bacon, fresh herbs, roasted seeds, or a swirl of quality olive oil. Remember to cater to the dietary preferences or restrictions of your guests.
- Bread Pairing: Serve the soup with crusty bread, toasted garlic bread, or breadsticks for dipping.
- Salad: A fresh, crunchy salad can provide a nice contrast to the creamy soup. Consider greens with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the soup’s sweetness.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of white wine like a Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir can complement the soup’s rich, earthy flavors.
- Course Placement: As a rich and hearty dish, Acorn Squash Soup can be served as an appetizer, a light main course, or a side dish in a more extensive spread.
Perfect Side Dishes
- Crusty Bread: A freshly baked loaf of crusty bread, such as baguette or sourdough, makes a perfect match. It’s great for sopping up every last drop of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic companion to any soup, a grilled cheese sandwich adds a hearty, comforting element.
- Green Salad: A crisp, light salad can contrast refreshingly with creamy soup. Try a mix of peppery greens like arugula with a bright lemon vinaigrette.
- Roasted Vegetables: Root vegetables or Brussels sprouts, roasted until crispy, offer a different texture and deeper flavor that complements the soup.
- Quinoa or Couscous Salad: A salad with quinoa or couscous, tossed with herbs and a citrusy dressing, can balance the rich, creamy soup.
- Charcuterie Board: A selection of cheeses, cured meats, olives, and fruits can be a delightful pairing with the soup, making a light and varied meal.
Storage And Make Ahead
- Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Acorn squash soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through heating.
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. Simply reheat it when ready to serve, adjusting the seasoning if necessary.
What Can We Do With Leftovers?
- Pasta Sauce: Thicken the soup with a bit of cream or pureed beans and use it as a unique sauce for pasta or gnocchi.
- Grain Bowls: Use the soup as a flavorful base for grain bowls. Add quinoa, brown rice, or farro, then top with roasted veggies and a protein like grilled chicken or tofu.
- Stuffed Vegetables: Use the soup as a filling for hollowed-out bell peppers or zucchinis, then bake until tender.
- Baked Dishes: Mix it with pasta, top with cheese, and bake for a comforting casserole.
- Savory Oatmeal: Stir it into oatmeal for a savory breakfast or lunch dish.
- Soup Base: Use the soup as a base for a new soup. Add fresh vegetables, proteins, or grains for variety.
TIPS
- Enhance the flavor by roasting the acorn squash before pureeing it for the soup. This adds a depth of caramelized sweetness.
- For a creamier texture without heavy cream, blend in a cooked potato or some coconut milk.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon for a warm, comforting aroma.
- For a savory twist, stir in some crispy bacon or pancetta before serving.
- Balance the sweetness with a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added texture and flavor contrast.
Flavorful Acorn Squash Soup Recipe (A 25-Minute Kitchen Triumph)
Course: Soup RecipeServings
4
servingsPrep time
15
minutesCooking time
25
minutesCalories
200
kcalSavor the exquisite flavors of Acorn Squash Soup! Sauteed onions and celery meld with mashed acorn squash, fragrant spices, and savory chicken broth. The velvety texture and creamy finish create a comforting and irresistible bowl of nourishment that will satisfy your cravings and warm your heart.
Ingredients
1 1 Small Onion
1/4 Cup 1/4 Chopped Celery
2 Tablespoons 2 Butter Or Margarine
2 Tablespoons 2 All-Purpose Flour
1 Tablespoon 1 Chicken Bouillon
Granules
1/2 Teaspoon 1/2 Dill Weed
1/4 Tablespoon 1/4 Curry Powder
Dash Cayenne Pepper
2 Cups 2 Chicken Broth
12 Ounce 12 Evaporated Milk
3 Cups 3 Mashed Cooked Acorn Squash
Salt And Pepper (To Taste)
5 5 Bacon Strips
Step-By-Step Directions
- Start by prepping your ingredients. Chop the onion and celery.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and celery. Saute until they are soft and translucent, enhancing your soup’s flavor profile.
- Next, add the flour, bouillon, dill, curry, and cayenne to the saucepan. Stir these ingredients until thoroughly blended with the sauteed onion and celery. This mixture will give your soup its distinctive taste.
- Gradually pour the broth and milk into the saucepan, stirring as you do to prevent any lumps from forming. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, stir and cook the mixture for an additional 2 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
- Now, add the squash, salt, and pepper to the soup. Stir everything together and heat until the squash is thoroughly warmed through.
- Transfer the soup to a blender. In batches, if necessary, process the soup until it is smooth. This will give your Acorn Squash Soup its characteristic creamy, velvety texture.
- After blending, pour the soup into bowls for serving. To add a final flavorful touch, garnish each bowl of soup with pieces of cooked bacon. This salty, crunchy topping provides a delightful contrast to the smooth, savory soup.
- Consider offering other toppings like a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs as an additional option. You could also provide a side of crusty bread for dipping.
- EQUIPMENT LIST
- Chef’s Knife
- Cutting Board
- Soup Pot or Dutch Oven
- Immersion Blender or Stand Blender
- Ladle
- Soup Bowls
Notes
- Acorn squash can be challenging to peel and cut due to its tough skin. To make it easier, microwave the whole squash for a few minutes or bake it in the oven until slightly softened. This will make it simpler to cut and remove the skin.
- For added depth of flavor, consider roasting the acorn squash instead of boiling or steaming it. Cut the squash in half, remove the seeds, brush with olive oil, and roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until tender. The roasting process enhances the natural sweetness of the squash.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup to your preference. Simmer the soup longer for more evaporation if you prefer a thicker consistency. Conversely, if you desire a thinner consistency, add extra broth or milk until you reach the desired texture.
- Garnish the soup with various toppings to add texture and flavor. Crispy bacon, chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives, croutons, or a drizzle of sour cream are all excellent options that can elevate the presentation and taste of the soup.
- Suppose you prefer a smoother texture without any chunks. You can strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve or use a high-powered blender to achieve a velvety consistency. This step is optional but can give the soup a more refined and silky mouthfeel.
Nutrition Table
