Mary Berrys Hearty Butternut Soup Recipe: A Comforting Winter Dish

Introduction

As the chill of winter sets in, there's nothing quite like the warmth of a bowl of homemade soup to lift your spirits. 🥣 If you're looking for a dish that's both comforting and delicious, Mary Berry's Hearty Butternut Soup is the perfect recipe to try. Known for her exquisite simplicity and delightful flavors, Mary Berry presents us with a soup that not only warms your body but also brings a touch of elegance to the humble butternut squash.

Why Choose Butternut Squash? 🍁

Butternut squash, with its sweet, nutty flavor and creamy texture when cooked, is an excellent base for soups. Here are a few reasons why butternut squash soups are particularly loved during the colder months:

• Rich in Nutrients: Butternut squash is packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants which are great for your immune system.
• Versatile: It can be roasted, boiled, or pureed, making it adaptable to numerous recipes.
• Comfort Food: Its mild, slightly sweet flavor profile makes it comforting and welcoming in various culinary contexts.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=butternut squash soup" alt="Butternut Squash Soup"> </div>

The Ingredients 🌽

Here's what you'll need to recreate this delectable soup at home:

• Butternut Squash: 1 large (about 1kg before peeling)
• Onions: 2, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, crushed
• Leeks: 2, sliced
• Carrots: 2, chopped
• Celery Stalks: 2, chopped
• Medium Potatoes: 2, peeled and diced
• Vegetable Stock: 1 liter (or chicken stock for a richer flavor)
• Thyme: 2 sprigs
• Bay Leaf: 1
• Double Cream: 150ml (optional for a creamier soup)
• Salt and Pepper: To taste
• Olive Oil: For roasting

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide 🍲

Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) for roasting the squash.

2. Cut the butternut squash in half, scoop out the seeds, then cube into manageable pieces.

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Roast the Squash

3. Drizzle the squash cubes with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven for about 30-40 minutes or until tender.

<p class="pro-note">🍳 Note: Roasting enhances the flavor and sweetness of butternut squash, making the soup richer.</p>

Cooking the Base

4. In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, leeks, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook until they soften, about 10 minutes.

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Simmering the Soup

5. Add the potatoes to the pot along with the roasted squash, stock, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 20-25 minutes until all vegetables are soft.

Puree and Serve

6. Remove the bay leaf and thyme sprigs, then puree the soup using an immersion blender or in batches in a regular blender until smooth.

7. Stir in the cream if using, and season to taste.

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<p class="pro-note">💡 Note: For a chunkier texture, you can reserve some pieces of butternut squash to stir in at the end.</p>

Garnish and Enjoy

8. Serve hot with a swirl of cream on top, perhaps some crumbled bacon or roasted pumpkin seeds for texture.

Serving Suggestions 🥪

• Bread: Serve with crusty bread or a baguette to soak up the soup.
• Salad: A light, fresh salad with a citrus vinaigrette can balance the soup's richness.
• Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the soup.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=serving butternut soup" alt="Serving Butternut Soup"> </div>

Health Benefits 💪

Butternut squash soup isn't just comforting; it's also incredibly good for you:

• Vitamins Galore: Contains vitamins A, C, E, and B vitamins which are crucial for skin health, immune function, and energy levels.
• Fiber: High in fiber, aiding digestion and helping to maintain a healthy weight.
• Antioxidants: These help combat oxidative stress, which can contribute to aging and various diseases.

<p class="pro-note">🌱 Note: The health benefits are particularly amplified when you use fresh, in-season ingredients.</p>

Variations and Twists 🌍

To keep your soup-making interesting, consider these variations:

• Spicy: Add some chili flakes or a chopped chili pepper for a kick.
• Creamier: Blend in some coconut milk instead of cream for a vegan-friendly version.
• Roasted Garlic: Before cooking, roast whole cloves of garlic to add a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor.

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Tips for Perfection 👩‍🍳

• Roasting: Do not skip the roasting step for the butternut squash; it's crucial for flavor development.
• Immersion Blender: For ease, an immersion blender directly in the pot can save you from hot soup splatters.
• Herbs: Use fresh herbs if possible; they impart a brighter flavor than dried.

<p class="pro-note">📝 Note: Keep tasting your soup throughout the cooking process and adjust seasonings as needed.</p>

Storing and Reheating 🥄

This soup freezes wonderfully:

• Store: Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw if frozen, then reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of stock or water if too thick.

<div style="text-align: center;"> <img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?q=soup storage" alt="Storing Butternut Soup"> </div>

Mary Berry's Hearty Butternut Soup is a testament to the idea that simple ingredients can create profound flavors when prepared with care. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply to enjoy a cozy night in, this soup checks all the boxes for comfort, nutrition, and flavor. With its earthy sweetness and creamy texture, it's the perfect antidote to the winter blues. So next time you see a butternut squash at the market, bring it home, and let Mary Berry guide you to a dish that not only warms your soul but also indulges your palate in the joys of seasonal eating.

Now, let's look at some frequently asked questions that might come up when making or serving this delightful soup:

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I use pre-cut butternut squash?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, but roasting whole squash pieces gives the soup a richer flavor. However, pre-cut squash can save time.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What can I use instead of cream for a dairy-free option?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Coconut milk or cashew cream are great substitutes for a dairy-free version of this soup.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>To make it vegan, use vegetable stock and skip or replace the cream with a plant-based alternative.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can this soup be made ahead of time?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely! The soup can be made a day or two in advance. Reheat gently before serving.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>