Butternut squash soup is a fall and winter staple, and for good reason! Its creamy texture, subtly sweet flavor, and warming effect make it the perfect comfort food. But using a Vitamix takes this classic to a whole new level of deliciousness. This powerful blender creates an unbelievably smooth and velvety soup, surpassing anything you could achieve with a traditional blender or immersion stick. Let's dive into how to make the perfect Vitamix butternut squash soup.
What Makes a Vitamix Butternut Squash Soup Superior?
The Vitamix's high-speed motor and powerful blades pulverize the squash into a completely smooth puree, eliminating any stringiness or lumps. This results in a luxuriously creamy soup that's incredibly satisfying. Furthermore, the Vitamix's ability to handle both hot and cold ingredients efficiently streamlines the cooking process, making it faster and easier than other methods.
Vitamix Butternut Squash Soup Recipe: Ingredients & Instructions
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings of delicious soup.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup coconut milk (for extra creaminess – optional, but highly recommended)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: toasted pepitas, crème fraîche, a swirl of coconut milk, chopped chives
Instructions:
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Roast the Squash (for enhanced flavor): Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender. (This step is optional but adds depth of flavor).
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Sauté Aromatics: While the squash is roasting (or if skipping roasting), sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little olive oil in a large pot or pan until softened.
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Combine and Blend: Add the roasted butternut squash, vegetable broth, coconut milk (if using), ginger, and nutmeg to the pot. Bring to a simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Vitamix Time: Carefully transfer the soup to your Vitamix container (working in batches if necessary). Secure the lid and blend on high speed until completely smooth and creamy (about 1-2 minutes).
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Season and Serve: Return the soup to the pot (if needed) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to make butternut squash soup in a Vitamix?
The entire process, including roasting the squash (if you choose to roast), takes approximately 45-60 minutes. Without roasting, it's a much quicker 30-40 minute process.
Can I make this soup without roasting the squash?
Absolutely! Skipping the roasting step will save you time, but the roasted squash adds a deeper, sweeter flavor. If you’re short on time, simply add the raw cubed squash to the pot with the other ingredients. You might need to increase the simmering time to ensure the squash is tender before blending.
What if my butternut squash soup is too thick?
Add a little more vegetable broth or coconut milk until you reach your desired consistency.
What are some other ways to garnish Vitamix butternut squash soup?
Besides the suggestions above, you can also garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Can I freeze leftover butternut squash soup?
Yes! Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the freezer. It should keep for up to 3 months.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians/vegans?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, ensure you use vegetable broth and omit the crème fraîche garnish.
This Vitamix butternut squash soup recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy the flavors of fall. The high-powered blending action of the Vitamix results in an exceptionally smooth and creamy texture that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy!
