Spicy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup

This spicy butternut squash and sweet potato soup brings warmth and comfort with its unique blend of earthy sweetness and a gentle kick of spice. Perfect for cozying up on chilly days, this velvety soup is as nutritious as it is flavorful. Butternut squash and sweet potatoes provide a rich, creamy base, complemented by aromatic spices that elevate the dish into a heartwarming experience. The soup is ideal for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet or wanting to enjoy a dish that is both comforting and packed with vitamins and antioxidants.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced (about 4 cups)
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 3 cups)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk (full-fat or light, as preferred)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or parsley) for garnish
  • Red pepper flakes for extra spice (optional)

Instructions

    • Prepare the Ingredients: Start by peeling and dicing the butternut squash and sweet potatoes into even-sized cubes. Chopping the vegetables uniformly ensures even cooking.
    • Sauté the Aromatics: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive or coconut oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant, stirring occasionally. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic, being careful not to let it burn.
    • Add Spices: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper, stirring to coat the onions and garlic with the spices. Toasting the spices briefly in the oil releases their essential oils, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
    • Combine the Main Ingredients: Add the diced butternut squash and sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir well to coat them with the spices and aromatics. Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that the vegetables are fully covered by the liquid.
    • Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 20–25 minutes, or until the butternut squash and sweet potatoes are soft enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
    • Blend the Soup: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to blend the soup to a smooth, creamy consistency. Alternatively, carefully transfer batches of the soup to a blender, blending until smooth and then returning it to the pot.
    • Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk, stirring well to incorporate it fully into the soup. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors and achieve a rich, creamy consistency.
    • Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as desired. For serving, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added color and spice if preferred.

Cooking Tips

  • Selecting Squash and Sweet Potatoes: For the best results, choose firm butternut squash with a matte skin and sweet potatoes that feel heavy for their size. This ensures they’re fresh and at their sweetest.
  • Adjusting Spice Levels: Adjust the cayenne and red pepper flakes to suit your spice tolerance. For a milder version, consider omitting the cayenne and focusing on the cumin and paprika for a smoky flavor.
  • Adding Extra Flavor: For added depth, try roasting the butternut squash and sweet potatoes before adding them to the soup. This caramelizes the vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness.
  • Storage and Reheating: This soup can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain its smooth texture.

Nutritional Benefits

  1. Rich in Vitamins: Butternut squash and sweet potatoes are high in vitamins A and C, essential for immune support and skin health.
  2. Good Source of Fiber: Both main ingredients provide dietary fiber, supporting digestion and helping to keep you feeling full.
  3. Healthy Fats: Coconut milk adds a dose of healthy fats, which help the body absorb fat-soluble vitamins and add creaminess without dairy.
  4. Low in Calories: This soup is relatively low in calories, making it an ideal choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is a delightful balance of sweet and spicy, offering a unique twist on classic butternut squash soup. The creamy, velvety texture combined with the warming spices makes it a versatile dish, suitable for a cozy lunch or a hearty starter. It’s also incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, yet each ingredient brings a significant nutritional punch. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or simply want a comforting soup, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Dietary Information

  • Vegan: The use of coconut milk makes this soup dairy-free and plant-based.
  • Gluten-Free: All ingredients in this soup are naturally gluten-free.
  • Nut-Free: This soup doesn’t contain nuts, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of butternut squash and sweet potato creates a natural sweetness that complements the subtle heat from cayenne and smoked paprika. Coconut milk rounds out the flavors with its creamy texture, making each spoonful indulgent yet healthy. Using vegetable broth ensures that the soup remains light yet flavorful, while cumin and paprika add depth without overwhelming the other flavors. Blending the soup achieves a smooth, satisfying texture, while garnishes like fresh herbs and red pepper flakes add visual appeal and a pop of extra flavor.

Conclusion

Spicy Butternut Squash and Sweet Potato Soup is a fantastic way to embrace the seasonal flavors of fall while keeping your meals light, nutritious, and comforting. With its combination of spice and sweetness, it’s a soup that will warm you from the inside out. This soup is perfect for meal prep and makes an excellent addition to any fall or winter gathering. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete, satisfying meal.