Indulge your taste buds with a warm bowl of Vanilla Butternut Squash Bisque, a delightful fusion of sweet and savory that promises to elevate your dining experience! This creamy, velvety soup is not just a feast for the palate but also a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy gathering with friends. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple cooking process, you'll be amazed at how easily you can whip up this gourmet dish that’s sure to impress. Ready to discover the secret to this luscious bisque? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the butternut squash by carefully peeling the skin using a sharp vegetable peeler. Cut the squash in half, remove the seeds, and cube the flesh into roughly 1-inch pieces.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the aromatic flavors.
- Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring the squash is mostly covered by the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is completely tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Remove the pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the mixture to a standard blender in batches.
- Stir in the coconut milk and vanilla extract, blending thoroughly to create a rich and smooth consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed. If the soup is too thick, thin it with additional vegetable broth.
- Ladle the hot bisque into serving bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips
- Choose the Right Squash: Opt for a medium-sized butternut squash that feels heavy for its size, which indicates ripeness and sweetness.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing process! Allow the onions to become translucent and fragrant before adding garlic. This step builds a flavorful base for your bisque.
- Blend for Smoothness: For the creamiest texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If using a standard blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches to avoid splatters.
- Adjust Consistency: If your bisque turns out thicker than desired, simply stir in a bit more vegetable broth or coconut milk until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Garnish Creatively: Fresh chives add a pop of color and a hint of onion flavor, but feel free to experiment with other garnishes like roasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 0mg
