Alton Brown Squash Soup Recipe

Alton Brown’s squash soup recipe is definitely one that’ll warm you up on the chilliest of days.

And so does the process of making it!

You’ll love how roasting the squash first brings out its natural sweetness and adds depth to the soup.

Make sure to scoop the flesh carefully once it’s cool and blend it thoroughly for a silky smooth texture.

Adding a hint of ginger can give the soup a unique and comforting flavor that pairs beautifully with the roasted squash.

How to Make Alton Brown Squash Soup

Ingredients

• 1 Butternut Squash (medium size)
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 tbsp Salt
• 1 tsp White Pepper
• 1 tsp Fresh Ginger (grated)
• 2 tbsp Honey
• 4 cups Chicken Stock
• 1/2 cup Heavy Cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 400°F.

Cut the butternut squash in half and remove the seeds.

Brush the cut sides with butter and season with salt and white pepper.

Step 2:

Place the seasoned squash on a baking sheet, cut-side up, and roast for 30-35 minutes, or until tender.

Set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 3:

In a large pot, combine roasted squash, grated ginger, honey, and chicken stock.

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.

Step 4:

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.

If you don’t have one, carefully puree in batches using a countertop blender.

Step 5:

Add the heavy cream to the soup and stir well.

Return the soup to a low simmer for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Roasting Time

Make sure the squash is fully tender when pricked with a fork after roasting; if not, roast a bit longer.

Blending Smoothness

Blend the soup thoroughly to achieve a velvety texture.

If it’s too thick, add a little extra chicken stock until you reach the desired consistency.

Flavor Adjustments

Adjust the level of sweetness and spice by adding more honey or ginger to taste.

This can make the soup suit your personal preference perfectly.

Cooling Tip

Let the squash cool slightly after roasting to make handling and blending safer and easier.

What to Serve with Alton Brown Squash Soup

Crusty Bread

A warm and crispy piece of crusty bread is essential when serving squash soup.

Its chewy texture and simple flavor make the perfect companion for a rich and velvety bowl of soup.

You can even try brushing a little bit of garlic butter on top before toasting.

Spinach Salad

A fresh spinach salad pairs nicely with the soup by adding some color and crunch.

Include ingredients like red onions, goat cheese, walnuts, and dried cranberries for a delightful contrast.

A light dressing, such as a creamy balsamic vinaigrette, ties all the flavors together beautifully.

Roasted Brussel Sprouts

Why not add some roasted Brussels sprouts for a healthy and tasty side dish?

Toss them with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt before roasting until they’re golden and crispy.

Their slight bitterness complements the sweet and savory notes of the soup.

Apple and Cheddar Sandwich

An apple and cheddar sandwich might sound unexpected, but it’s delicious with squash soup.

The sweet and tart flavors of the apple balance the sharpness of the cheddar cheese wonderfully.

Grill the sandwich until the bread is golden for a satisfying crunch.

Savory Herb Scones

Savory herb scones are another tasty option to consider alongside a comforting bowl of soup.

Infuse your scones with rosemary or thyme for an herby kick that pairs well with the soup’s sweetness.

Serve them warm, breaking them apart to dip into the soup for a delightful combination.

Variations and Substitutions

Alternative Ingredients

You can explore using sweet potatoes instead of squash for a slightly sweeter and heartier soup.

Consider swapping vegetable stock for chicken stock if you’re looking for a richer flavor profile in your soup.

Additions for Flavor

To add a bit of spice, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to your squash soup. It gives an exciting kick!

Try adding a touch of coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist that pairs well with curry powder or turmeric.

Dietary Substitutions

For a dairy-free option, you can use almond or soy milk in place of cream for a similar creamy texture without the dairy.

To make it vegan-friendly, use a plant-based butter substitute and skip any animal-derived stock.

Garnishing Ideas

Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or a sprinkle of crispy bacon to add some texture and an extra burst of flavor.

Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a fresh and vibrant touch that makes the soup feel special.

How to Store Leftover Alton Brown Squash Soup

Storing your leftover squash soup properly is essential to maintaining its flavor and freshness!

First, cool the soup to room temperature. This helps prevent bacteria from growing.

Use an ice bath if you’re in a hurry. Just place the container of soup in a larger bowl filled with ice water.

Once the soup has cooled, you should transfer it to airtight containers.

Tupperware or ziplock bags work well.

Refrigeration

You can refrigerate the soup for 3-4 days.

Consume it within this timeframe to enjoy the best taste.

For the Freezer

For longer storage, consider freezing the soup for up to three months.

Be sure to label the containers with the date to keep track of freshness.

By following these steps, you can savor your delicious Alton Brown squash soup later without any worries!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Over-roasting the Squash

A common mistake is leaving the squash in the oven for too long.

Over-roasted squash can become overly dry.

Make sure to check it at the 30-minute mark for perfect tenderness.

Skipping the Seasoning

Don’t underestimate the power of salt and pepper.

Failing to season properly can lead to a bland soup.

You want each spoonful to be full of flavor!

Incorrect Pureeing

Using the wrong blending technique can really affect texture.

Always purée until smooth to achieve a creamy consistency.

Lumpy soup is definitely not the goal!