- Vegetable Stock (base liquid for soup, keyword: vegetable stock)
- Apple Slices (for natural sweetness, keyword: apples)
- Cinnamon Stick (spice to complement flavors, keyword: cinnamon stick)
- Nutmeg Powder (a popular spice in autumn recipes, keyword: nutmeg powder)
- Thyme Leaves (herb for aromatic notes, keyword: thyme leaves)
- Salt and Pepper (to season the soup, keywords: salt, pepper)
Steps
### Butternut Squash and Apple Cider Soup Recipe
#### Introduction to the Recipe:
Indulge in the warm comfort of this Butternut Squash and Apple Cider Soup. This recipe combines sweet butternut squash with the natural sweetness of apples, and the unique flavor of apple cider. It's perfect for a chilly autumn day or any time you want to enjoy a hearty, comforting soup.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 large butternut squash (about 2 pounds)
- 3 medium apples
- 4 cups apple cider
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
#### Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Immersion blender (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- **Peel and Cube the Butternut Squash:** Wash the butternut squash, cut it in half lengthwise. Scoop out the seeds using a spoon. Cut the squash into cubes.
- **Chop the Apples:** Peel, core, and chop the apples into small dice.
#### Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions and garlic. Cook until fragrant and translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the butternut squash, apples, and apple cider.
4. Season with salt, pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly coated.
#### Step 3: Simmer the Soup
1. Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until the butternut squash is soft and tender.
3. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
#### Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)
1. Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to puree the soup to your desired consistency, or transfer the contents of the pot into a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Return the blended soup back to the pot if necessary.
#### Step 5: Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cinnamon or chopped apples for added flavor and texture.
- Serve hot, optionally topped with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for extra richness.
### Tips and Variations:
- For an extra festive touch, add a few pomegranate seeds to each bowl before serving.
- Experiment with different spices like cardamom or ginger for unique flavors.
- Ensure all ingredients are fresh; this will significantly impact the taste and texture of your soup.
#### Conclusion
Enjoy the warmth and depth of flavors in this Butternut Squash and Apple Cider Soup. It’s a great dish to share during family gatherings, or simply enjoy as a cozy meal on a cold evening. Happy cooking!