Vegan Butternut Squash Soup is a delicious and nutritious way to warm up on a chilly evening. This creamy and flavorful soup is incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting to explore plant-based eating, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
This soup is not only incredibly delicious but also boasts a number of health benefits. Butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s also naturally sweet, which eliminates the need for added sugar. This recipe is:
- Easy to make: The straightforward instructions make this recipe perfect for cooks of all levels.
- Budget-friendly: With just a handful of affordable ingredients, you can create a satisfying and flavorful meal.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a light lunch, a hearty starter, or a comforting dinner.
Ingredients for vegan butternut squash soup
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium red onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
How to Make Vegan Butternut Squash Soup
This vegan butternut squash soup recipe is easy to follow and yields a creamy, flavorful soup.
- Preheat oven and prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the squash: Toss the cubed butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Sauté the aromatics: While the squash is roasting, heat the remaining olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Simmer the soup: Add the roasted butternut squash to the pot with the onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Blend until smooth: Carefully transfer the soup to a blender (or use an immersion blender) and blend until completely smooth.
- Stir in coconut milk: Return the blended soup to the pot. Stir in the coconut milk, nutmeg (if using), and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings.
Blending vegan butternut squash soup in a high-speed blender.
Tips for the Best Vegan Butternut Squash Soup
Here are some tips to elevate your vegan butternut squash soup from good to amazing:
- Roast for deeper flavor: Roasting the butternut squash intensifies its natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor to the soup.
- Adjust consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth. If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
- Spice it up: Experiment with different spices like curry powder, cumin, or ginger for a unique flavor profile.
“Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices when making butternut squash soup. A touch of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of chili flakes can add a wonderful layer of flavor.” – Chef Anya Green
Serving Suggestions
This vegan butternut squash soup is delicious on its own or paired with a variety of toppings and sides.
- Toppings: Toasted pumpkin seeds, pepitas, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary), a dollop of coconut cream, or a swirl of vegan sour cream.
- Sides: Crusty bread for dipping, a simple green salad, or a vegan grilled cheese sandwich.
Vegan butternut squash soup served in a bowl with toppings.
Vegan Butternut Squash Soup Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, try these delicious variations:
- Curried Butternut Squash Soup: Add 1-2 tablespoons of curry powder while sautéing the onions and garlic. This variation pairs wonderfully with coconut milk. You can find more inspiring [vegan butternut squash recipes] (https://purelyvegan.net/vegan-butternut-squash-recipes/) on our website.
- Apple Butternut Squash Soup: Add 1 chopped apple to the pot along with the butternut squash. The apple adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the squash beautifully. Check out our other [vegan sweet potato soup] (https://purelyvegan.net/vegan-sweet-potato-soup/) recipe for more fall-inspired flavors.
- Spicy Butternut Squash Soup: Sauté a chopped jalapeño pepper or add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the garlic for a touch of heat. For those who love hearty soups, we recommend exploring our collection of [vegan barley soup recipes] (https://purelyvegan.net/vegan-barley-soup-recipes/).
FAQs About Making Vegan Butternut Squash Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made up to 3 days ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
Can I freeze vegan butternut squash soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What can I substitute for coconut milk?
If you don’t have coconut milk, you can use another plant-based milk like almond milk, cashew milk, or soy milk. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess of the soup may vary slightly.
Can I use another type of squash?
Yes, you can use other winter squashes like acorn squash or kabocha squash in place of butternut squash. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the squash you choose. Discover more delicious [acorn squash recipes vegan] (https://purelyvegan.net/acorn-squash-recipes-vegan/) to expand your culinary horizons.
“When it comes to plant-based cooking, don’t be afraid to get creative and substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand. Often, the most delicious creations come from experimenting in the kitchen!” – Chef Anya Green
What are some other ways to use leftover roasted butternut squash?
Roasted butternut squash is incredibly versatile! Use it to make salads, tacos, burritos, pasta dishes, or even pizza. You can also puree it and use it as a base for sauces or dips.
This creamy vegan butternut squash soup is a true testament to the delicious simplicity of plant-based cooking. With its warm spices and velvety texture, it’s the perfect soup to cozy up with on a chilly evening. So gather your ingredients and treat yourself to a bowl of this comforting and flavorful soup. And if you’re looking for a comforting soup with a different twist, be sure to try our [sweet potato soup vegan] (https://purelyvegan.net/sweet-potato-soup-vegan/) for another satisfying meal.
