Simple Butternut Squash Soup

I get to a point during the holiday season when the heavy meals begin to weigh me down. Overwhelmed, I reach for simpler foods closer to the earth. A trip to the farmer's market usually does the trick. There, I found a beautiful butternut squash, more yellowish in color. I wanted to showcase the delicate flavor of the squash without overwhelming it, so I came up with this simple broth. Not too sweet nor spiced, this is the perfect winter soup. It relies on the hardiness of the squash for its texture, rather than heavy creams or butter. Serve on a cold night with a nice crusty bread or a salad, it's perfect for dinner in pj's by the fireplace.

Ingredients

  • 1 butternut squash, chopped
  • 1/2 sweet onion, chopped
  • 1 cube vegetable bouillon
  • 4 cups hot water
  • 1/4 cup milk (optional)
  • 1/8 tsp cinnamon
  • tiny pinch nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • fresh fennel to garnish
  • salt to taste
Instructions: 

Serving: 2
Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 30 min

  1. Add olive oil to a medium sized pot over low heat. Once warmed up, add the onion and squash. Stir gently then let sit for about 15 minutes.
  2. Add the hot water, stir in the bouillon and spices then allow to simmer for another 10 minutes.
  3. Blend the ingredients, either with a hand blender or by pouring them into a regular blender. Blend until smooth.
  4. Pour back into the pot then add milk if desired. Stir well.
  5. Serve garnished with fennel.
  6. Enjoy.