Butternut Squash Soup

A healthy but comforting butternut squash soup perfect for after a long hike in the autumn weather.

Ingredients

• 1 large butternut squash, halved vertically and seeds removed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup chopped shallot 
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
• 1 teaspoon maple syrup
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 24 to 32 ounces vegetable broth
• 1 to 2 tablespoons butter, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the butternut squash on the pan and drizzle and rub each half with just enough olive oil to lightly coat the squash on the inside. Sprinkle it with salt and pepper.
2. Turn the squash face down and roast until it is tender and completely cooked through, about 40 to 50 minutes. Set the squash aside until it’s cool enough to handle.
3. Meanwhile, in a large soup pot, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the chopped shallot and 1 teaspoon salt. Cook, stirring often, until the shallot has softened and is starting to turn golden on the edges, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute, stirring frequently. Transfer the contents to your blender.
4. Use a large spoon to scoop the butternut squash flesh into your blender. Discard the tough skin. Add the maple syrup, nutmeg and a few twists of freshly ground black pepper to the blender. Pour in 3 cups vegetable broth, being careful not to fill the container past the maximum fill line (you can work in batches if necessary and stir in any remaining broth later).
5. Securely fasten the lid. Blend on high (or select the soup preset). Stop once your soup is ultra creamy and warmed through.
6. If you would like to thin out your soup a bit more, stir in the remaining cup of broth. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil, to taste, and blend well. Taste and stir in more salt and pepper, if necessary.
7. If your soup is piping hot from the blending process, you can pour it into serving bowls. If not, pour it back into your soup pot and warm the soup over medium heat, stirring often, until it’s nice and steamy and enjoy your delicious creation!