Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat evenly. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelized at the edges, filling your kitchen with a sweet, nutty aroma.
- While the squash roasts, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and soft, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should smell sweet and look slightly golden.
- Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for another minute until fragrant—it should make your kitchen smell rich and aromatic.
- Once the squash is done roasting, transfer it into the pot with the onions and garlic, and stir in the ground cinnamon and allspice. Allow the spices to toast slightly for 1 minute to release their fragrant oils.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10 minutes to let flavors meld.
- Remove the pot from heat, then add the maple syrup and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree until smooth and creamy. Be careful with the hot liquids—blend in batches if necessary.
- Return the pureed soup to the stove, and warm through over low heat for a few minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the balance of sweet and acidity as desired.
- Pour the hot soup into bowls, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the velvety, fragrant embrace of this seasonal soup.
Notes
You can add a splash of cream or a handful of toasted pumpkin seeds for extra texture. Adjust seasoning to your taste; a pinch more cinnamon or lemon can brighten or warm the dish.
