Savor the Flavors: Mary Berry Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Craving a bowl of comfort? Butternut squash soup is the perfect solution. This creamy, flavorful soup is a favorite for its rich taste and hearty texture. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a delicious starter for a dinner party, butternut squash soup never disappoints.

Now, imagine this beloved soup crafted by none other than Mary Berry. Known for her impeccable taste and culinary expertise, Mary Berry’s butternut squash soup recipe takes this classic dish to a whole new level. Her version combines simplicity and elegance, making it a must-try for any soup lover. Get ready to enjoy a delightful bowl of warmth and flavor with Mary Berry’s butternut squash soup recipe.

Why You’ll Be Glad You Tried This Recipe

Rich Flavor: Roasting the vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and depth, making the soup particularly flavorful.

Health Benefits: This soup is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, supporting overall health.

Simple to Make: The process is straightforward, with roasting doing most of the flavor development, making it easy even for beginners.

Dairy-Free: It’s a great choice for those with dairy sensitivities or anyone looking for a lighter, plant-based option.

Versatile: This soup can be served as a starter or a main course and is perfect for customizing with your favorite toppings and spices.

How To Make Marry Berry Butternut Squash Soup Recipe Overview

This butternut squash soup takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish, with most of that time being hands-off while the squash roasts to perfection. The recipe serves about 6 to 8 people, making it perfect for a family meal or a comforting dish to share at gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1.8 kg (about 4 lbs) butternut squash, peeled, deseeded, and cut into 3 cm cubes
• 1 large red pepper, deseeded and cubed
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 large onion, coarsely chopped
• 1 to 2 tablespoons honey (optional, depending on your taste for sweetness)
• 5 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 liters (about 4 pints) vegetable stock
• 6 cm piece of fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare Vegetables:
   Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). In a large mixing bowl, combine the butternut squash, onion, carrots, and red pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until the vegetables are well coated. If you like a touch of sweetness, drizzle the honey over the vegetables.
2. Roast the Vegetables:
   Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes, or until the squash is tender and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
3. Prepare the Soup Base:
   About 10 minutes before the vegetables are done roasting, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and the chopped ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
4. Combine and Simmer:
   Add the roasted vegetables to the pot with the ginger. Pour in the vegetable stock, season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook gently for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Blend the Soup:
   Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add more stock or water until it reaches your desired thickness.
6. Adjust Seasonings and Serve:
   Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with a swirl of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.

Nutritional Value

This soup is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins A and C, thanks to the squash and red peppers. It’s low in fat and calories but high in flavor and satisfaction. Each serving contains approximately:

Calories: 180

Fat: 7 g

Carbohydrates: 29 g

Fiber: 6 g

Protein: 3 g

Also Read: Carrot and Parsnip Soup Mary Berry Recipe

FAQs

What if I don’t have an immersion blender?

If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender to puree the soup. Transfer the soup in small batches to the blender, making sure not to fill it too full to avoid spills from the steam pressure. Secure the lid and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot to keep warm.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add more heat to the soup, you can include spices like chili flakes or cayenne pepper while roasting the vegetables or cooking the soup. Alternatively, stirring in a bit of your favorite hot sauce or adding freshly chopped chili peppers before serving can also enhance the spiciness according to your taste preferences.

Any suggestions for toppings?

For a textural contrast, consider topping your soup with roasted pumpkin seeds or croutons for crunch. A swirl of coconut cream or a few drops of truffle oil can add a luxurious finish. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley also make refreshing garnishes that complement the soup’s flavors beautifully.

Is butternut squash a superfood?

Butternut squash is often considered a superfood because it’s packed with nutrients. It is rich in vitamins A and C, which are great for your immune system and skin. It also has plenty of fiber and antioxidants. These help with digestion and protect against disease. Plus, it’s low in calories, making it a healthy choice for any diet. Its versatility in cooking adds to its superfood status.

What are 3 ways you can eat butternut squash?

You can enjoy butternut squash in several tasty ways. First, you can roast it in the oven with a bit of olive oil and spices for a delicious side dish. Second, you can mash it after cooking to make a smooth, creamy puree. Third, you can cube and add it to stews or salads for extra flavor and texture. Each method brings out its sweet, nutty flavor.

Conclusion

This dairy-free butternut squash soup is a wholesome, comforting dish that’s perfect for any season. With its simple preparation and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to satisfy both the health-conscious and those seeking a hearty meal. Enjoy this delightful blend of sweet squash, tangy red pepper, and spicy ginger, all brought together in one delicious bowl.