Ah, the joys of autumn—crisp air, rustling leaves, and the alluring embrace of comfort food. This Creamy Vegan Roasted Acorn Squash Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s rich, velvety, and, dare I say, just a bit magical, much like that unexpected sunny day in the middle of October that makes you question if winter will ever truly arrive.
Steps
- Preheat the oven and prepare the acorn squash by cutting it into smaller chunks for even roasting. Place the squash pieces on a baking sheet and roast until tender and slightly caramelized.
- While the squash is roasting, prepare the other ingredients. Dice the onions and mince the garlic cloves, ready to be sautéed.
- In a pot, heat some oil and sauté the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant. Add the roasted squash to the pot and stir to combine.
- Pour in the broth of your choice—chicken or beef—and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the flavors to meld together as it cooks for a few minutes.
- Once everything is well combined, use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer.
- If desired, incorporate some sweet elements like brown sugar to enhance the flavor. Serve the soup hot, garnished with toppings such as cream, pesto, or croutons for added texture and taste.
Ingredients
- 2 medium acorn squash, halved and seeded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth as an alternative)
- 1/2 cup half-and-half (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for added sweetness)
FAQ
- Can I substitute chicken broth for beef broth in the roasted acorn squash soup?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken broth for beef broth in this recipe. Some people have found it to be a delicious alternative and have even added pumpkin purée for additional flavor.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the soup?
- Many suggest adding more than just a pinch of salt to enhance the taste. Incorporating brown sugar, spices like cinnamon and cayenne, or even pumpkin pie spice can make the flavors more vibrant.
- Is it necessary to add nutmeg and cinnamon to the soup?
- While the recipe includes nutmeg and cinnamon, it’s not mandatory. Some prefer the soup without these spices, focusing instead on salt and pepper, and find it equally delicious.
- What toppings work well with roasted acorn squash soup?
- Popular toppings for this soup include cream, pesto, Parmesan cheese, ground pepper, shredded Brussels sprouts, and croutons, which can add texture and additional flavor.
- Can I adjust the amount of onion used in the recipe?
- Absolutely, you can adjust the amount of onion based on personal preference or dietary needs. Some have used less onion to make the soup gentler on their stomachs while still enjoying its delightful taste.
Tips
- Add spices before blending to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, even flavor throughout the soup.
- Consider incorporating extra seasoning such as cinnamon, cayenne, or paprika to enhance the flavor profile, making it more robust and aromatic.
- Experiment with adding sweetness by incorporating brown sugar or substituting chicken broth with beef broth for a richer taste.
- Try topping the soup with ingredients like cream, pesto, or croutons for added texture and flavor complexity.
Equipment
- Blender or Immersion Blender – For blending the soup into a smooth consistency.
- Baking Sheet – For roasting the acorn squash in the oven.
- Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven – For cooking the soup.
