Creamy Pumpkin and Apple Soup

This creamy pumpkin and apple soup is a delicious blend of savory and sweet, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Featuring the earthy flavors of butternut squash, enhanced with aromatic sage and garlic, this soup offers a comforting and nutritious meal option. The surprising addition of sweet apple provides a delightful twist, adding natural sweetness and depth. The coconut milk not only makes the soup creamy but also introduces a subtle nutty flavor, making each sip a delight. This dish is both nourishing and incredibly satisfying, whether served as a starter or a main course. It's ideal for a cozy family dinner or an impressive option for entertaining guests. With its tantalizing aroma and smooth texture, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare, it’s a great recipe to have in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 kg butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 3 sage leaves, chopped
• 1 apple, peeled and chopped
• 1 tbsp butter
• 2 celery stalks, washed and chopped
• 1 leek (white part only), washed and chopped
• 250 ml chicken stock
• 350 ml coconut milk
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and cubing the butternut squash. Chop the onion and leek, crush the garlic, and dice the apple. Slice the celery and chop the sage leaves.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté Onion: Add the chopped onion to the pot with a pinch of salt. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5 minutes, until the onions become soft but not brown.
4. Add Aromatics: Stir in the garlic, celery, leeks, sage, and apple. Raise the heat to high and cook for a few minutes.
5. Caramelize Ingredients: Stir in the butter and allow the ingredients to caramelize slightly.
6. Cook the Squash: Add the cubed squash to the pot and pour in the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Simmer: Reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 25 to 35 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
8. Separate Liquids: Carefully strain the mixture to separate the liquid, reserving it in a bowl.
9. Blend the Soup: Transfer the squash and other solids into a blender. Add half of the reserved liquid and the coconut milk, then blend until smooth.
10. Adjust Consistency: If necessary, gradually add more of the reserved liquid until the desired soup consistency is achieved.
11. Season: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
12. Serve: Pour the soup into bowls and garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons.

Tips

• Thickening: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of stock used.
• Alternative Milk: You can substitute coconut milk with cream or any plant-based milk for a different flavor.
• Texture: Blend the soup to your preferred texture, either smooth or slightly chunky.
• Garnish: Consider adding fresh herbs as a garnish for added freshness.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Fats: 12g
• Carbs: 32g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or nutmeg for a spicier or more aromatic version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crusty bread or cheesy toast for a wholesome meal.
• Serve alongside a fresh green salad.
• Top with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

Best Places

• Ginger Sue’s Café - Known for their cozy ambience and delicious homemade soups. Location: 50 S Plaza Way, Cape Girardeau, USA.
• Pumpkin & Spice Bistro - Offers innovative seasonal dishes. Location: 123 Harvest Lane, Rochester, USA.
• Gourd Gourmand - Celebrated for their unique pumpkin dishes. Location: 8 Orchard St, Dublin, Ireland.
• The Soup Kitchen - Specializes in hearty, comforting soups. Location: 42 Victoria Place, London, UK.
• Sage & Basil Café - Known for integrating fresh herbs in every dish. Location: 7 Olive Rd, Sydney, Australia.
• Flavor Melange - Offers a wide array of international flavors. Location: 61 Spice Market Cir, Marrakech, Morocco.
• Le Chaudron D'or - A French bistro famous for its soups. Location: 33 Rue de Pont, Paris, France.
• La Zucca Felice - Italian eatery focusing on seasonal vegetables. Location: 9 Via Verdi, Bologna, Italy.
• Gourmet Leaves - Serves elegant plant-based meals. Location: 24 Elm Drive, Toronto, Canada.
• Cocina de Campo - Known for hearty countryside meals. Location: 15 Avenida del Campo, Cordoba, Spain.