Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Roasting for Maximum Flavor & Color
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, toss the cubed butternut squash, chopped onion, and whole garlic cloves with olive oil and kosher salt. Spread into a single layer.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes, until the squash is tender and lightly caramelized at the edges.
Simmering the Soup Base
- Transfer the roasted vegetables to a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add the vegetable broth, ground nutmeg, and a few sprigs of fresh thyme.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
The Secret to a Silky-Smooth Blend
- Remove the pot from the heat and discard the thyme sprigs. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until completely smooth and velvety.
- Stir in the 1/2 cup (120ml) of heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed.
The Art of the Perfect Garnish
- In a small, dry skillet over medium-low heat, toast the pumpkin seeds for 3-5 minutes, shaking the pan, until fragrant and popping slightly. Remove immediately.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Drizzle a small amount of the remaining heavy cream in the center and use a spoon tip to create a swirl. Top with a cluster of toasted pumpkin seeds, a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper, and a tiny sprig of fresh thyme. Serve immediately.
Notes
Choosing the Right Squash: Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a solid, uniform beige color.
Blender Safety: If using a countertop blender, let the soup cool slightly and blend in batches, covering the lid with a towel to allow steam to escape.
Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick, thin it with more broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce.
Don't Skip the Toasting: Toasting the pumpkin seeds is a small step that adds a huge amount of flavor and crunch.
Blender Safety: If using a countertop blender, let the soup cool slightly and blend in batches, covering the lid with a towel to allow steam to escape.
Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick, thin it with more broth; if too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce.
Don't Skip the Toasting: Toasting the pumpkin seeds is a small step that adds a huge amount of flavor and crunch.
