Warm up your taste buds with a bowl of Spicy Chipotle Butternut Squash Soup! This delightful Mexican-inspired dish combines the creamy sweetness of butternut squash with a smoky kick from chipotle in adobo sauce, creating a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a vibrant starter for your next gathering, this soup is not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a comforting meal that serves four, making it an ideal choice for families or dinner parties. Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh lime juice for garnish
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the butternut squash by washing, peeling, and cutting it into 1-inch cubes. Ensure all seeds and stringy pulp are removed.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, 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 aromatic flavors.
- Add cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir to combine with onions and garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes to slightly caramelize the squash edges.
- Pour vegetable broth into the pot, ensuring all squash pieces are submerged. Add chipotle in adobo sauce, which will provide smoky heat to the soup.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until squash is completely tender and can be easily mashed with a fork.
- Remove pot from heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a standard blender, carefully transfer in batches.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust chipotle sauce for desired spice level.
- Ladle hot soup into serving bowls. Garnish with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro just before serving.
- Serve immediately with optional side of crusty bread or tortilla chips for added texture.
Tips
- Choosing the Right Squash: When selecting a butternut squash, look for one that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin. This ensures you get a sweet and creamy texture in your soup.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder soup, start with just one tablespoon of chipotle in adobo sauce and gradually add more to taste. You can always spice it up, but it's hard to tone it down!
- Blend for Creaminess: For a super smooth texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot. If using a traditional blender, let the soup cool slightly before blending in batches to avoid splatters.
- Garnish for Flavor: Don’t skip the fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro! They add a refreshing brightness that complements the rich, smoky flavors of the soup.
- Serve with a Crunch: Pair the soup with crusty bread or tortilla chips for added texture and a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup.
- Make it Ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great make-ahead option. Just reheat and garnish before serving!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 150kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
