Roasted butternut squash soup with bacon

Introduction:

This roasted butternut squash soup with bacon is the perfect comfort food for cooler months. Combining the natural sweetness of roasted squash with the savory crunch of bacon, this soup offers a balanced and flavorful dish. The creamy texture, along with crispy bacon bits, makes it a satisfying and warming meal, perfect for cozy evenings or as a hearty appetizer.

Ingredients:

• 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 4 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional)
• Fresh parsley or chives, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Roast the butternut squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread it on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
2. Cook the bacon: While the squash is roasting, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.
3. Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the diced onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Simmer the soup: Add the roasted butternut squash, chicken or vegetable broth, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Blend the soup: Using an immersion blender (or transferring the soup to a blender in batches), blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Stir in the heavy cream or coconut milk for added creaminess if desired. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with crispy bacon bits. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Conclusion:

This roasted butternut squash soup with bacon is a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. The creamy texture and smoky bacon complement the warmth of the roasted squash perfectly. It’s a nourishing and hearty dish that’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for fall or winter meals. Enjoy it as a comforting main dish or as an appetizer at your next gathering!

For more details, visit the full recipe

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