Spicy Squash Soup Recipe

Embark on a flavorful journey with this spicy squash soup recipe. Comprised of seasonal acorn squash and pumpkin puree, this soup brings the warm, comforting flavors of fall right into your kitchen. Spiced with ancho chile powder, cumin, oregano, and a hint of cloves, this soup is a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and subtly sweet.

Photos of Spicy Squash Soup Recipe

The star components - acorn squash and pumpkin puree might not be readily available in your pantry. Acorn squash is a type of winter squash with a sweet, nutty taste similar to that of a pumpkin. It's commonly available in supermarkets throughout fall and winter. Pumpkin puree can be found canned in most grocery stores, but ensure that it's pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling which has added spices and sugar.

Ingredients for Spicy Squash Soup

Acorn squash: A sweet and hearty winter squash that adds a velvety texture and rich flavor to the soup.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing the shallot and garlic, and roasting the squash.

Shallot: Adds a mild and slightly sweet flavor.

Garlic: Gives the soup a savory depth.

Pumpkin puree: Adds thickness and enhances the squash flavor.

Spices: Ancho chile powder, cumin, oregano, coriander, and cloves combine to give the soup a warm, spicy kick.

Vegetable broth: The liquid base of the soup.

Lemon: Adds a fresh tang to balance the richness of the soup.

Pepitas: Roasted pumpkin seeds that add a nice crunch for garnish.

Crème fraiche: Provides a creamy and tangy element to contrast the spiciness.

One reader, Dario Oliveira says:

This spicy squash soup recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices creates a rich, flavorful soup that warms the soul. The roasted pepitas add a delightful crunch, and the touch of crème fraîche balances the heat perfectly. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting, spicy dish.

Dario Oliveira

Techniques Required for Spicy Squash Soup

How to roast the squash: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the squash, cut sides down, on the baking sheet and roast for about 30 minutes, or until mostly tender. Let the squash cool for a few minutes, then scoop the flesh into a small bowl and discard the skin.

How to prepare the garnish: In a small skillet over medium heat, add the pepitas, olive oil, chile powder, cumin, coriander, and a pinch of salt. Toss to combine and toast for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the pepitas' edges are turning lightly golden brown.

How to blend the soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until smooth.

How to adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and add more salt until the spices really sing, around ½ teaspoon for vegetable broth or 1 teaspoon if you used water.

How To Make Spicy Squash Soup

This squash soup is rich, spicy, and very comforting. It’s teeming with various herbs and spices and can be eaten anytime with bread or a salad.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 40 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Soup:

1acorn squash,large, halved and seeds scooped out
2tbspolive oil
1shallot,finely chopped
1clovegarlic,pressed or minced
1cuppumpkin puree
1tspsalt,plus more, to taste
1tspancho chile powder,or regular chile powder
1tspground cumin
½tspdried oregano
¼tspground coriander
ground cloves,small pinch
3cupsvegetable broth,or water
½lemon,juice

For Garnishes:

¼cuppepitas,green pumpkin seeds
½tspolive oil
¼tspancho chile powder,or regular chile powder
¼tspground cumin
pinchground coriander
salt,to taste
3tbspcrème fraîche,optional, replace with a tiny splash of olive oil for vegan/dairy-free soup

Instructions

Soup:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the squash, cut sides down, on the baking sheet and roast for about 30 minutes, or until mostly tender.
Let the squash cool for a few minutes, then scoop the flesh into a small bowl and discard the skin.
In a medium pot or Dutch oven, warm the oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the shallot and cook for about 2 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic, reserved squash, pumpkin, 1 teaspoon salt, chile powder, cumin, oregano, coriander and cloves. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
Pour in the vegetable broth or water and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the squash is completely softened.
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until smooth.
Return the soup to the pot and set it over low heat to keep it warm. Taste the soup and add more salt until the spices really sing, around ½ teaspoon for vegetable broth or 1 teaspoon if you used water.

Garnish:

In a small skillet over medium heat, add the pepitas, olive oil, chile powder, cumin, coriander and a pinch of salt. Toss to combine and toast for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the pepitas’ edges are turning lightly golden brown.
Divide the soup among bowls and drizzle a bit of crème fraîche or olive oil on top. Top with a sprinkle of pepitas and serve.

Nutrition

Calories: 220.24kcal
Fat: 14.13g
Saturated Fat: 3.06g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 7.51g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.56g
Carbohydrates: 23.70g
Fiber: 6.19g
Sugar: 3.96g
Protein: 5.05g
Cholesterol: 5.46mg
Sodium: 910.95mg
Calcium: 113.51mg
Potassium: 708.25mg
Iron: 3.60mg
Vitamin A: 533.49µg
Vitamin C: 20.88mg

Technique Tip for Perfecting Spicy Squash Soup

When roasting the acorn squash, it's important to check for doneness by piercing the flesh with a fork. If it goes in easily, the squash is ready. This ensures that the squash will be soft enough to blend smoothly into the soup, enhancing the overall texture and flavor. Additionally, when toasting the pepitas, keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly. Stir them frequently for even toasting, which will bring out their nutty flavor and add a delightful crunch to your soup.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Spicy Squash Soup Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use canned pumpkin: Opt for canned pumpkin puree instead of roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin for convenience.

Invest in a good blender: A high-quality blender can quickly and efficiently puree the soup to a smooth consistency.

Double the batch: Make a larger quantity and freeze the extra portions for quick and easy meals later.

One-pot cooking: Choose recipes that allow you to cook everything in a single pot to minimize cleanup time.

Organize your workspace: Keep your cooking area tidy and organized to work more efficiently.

Prep and freeze: Prepare and freeze soup ingredients in individual portions for quick and easy meal prep later.

Utilize kitchen tools: Use kitchen gadgets like food processors and immersion blenders to speed up prep and cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Squash Soup Recipe

acorn squash - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash has a similar sweet and nutty flavor, and it cooks and purees just as smoothly as acorn squash.
shallot - Substitute with onion: Onions have a similar mild, sweet flavor and can be used as a substitute for shallots in this recipe.
pumpkin puree - Substitute with butternut squash puree: Butternut squash puree has a similar texture and sweetness, making it a suitable substitute for pumpkin puree in this recipe.
ancho chile powder - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika provides a similar smoky flavor and mild heat, making it a good substitute for ancho chile powder.
vegetable broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can add a rich flavor and depth to the soup, similar to vegetable broth.
crème fraiche - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, making it a suitable substitute for crème fraiche in garnishing the soup.

Best Way to Present Spicy Squash Soup

Elevate the soup bowl: Choose a shallow, wide bowl to showcase the vibrant color and texture of the soup. The wide rim allows for a beautiful garnish arrangement and ensures the soup is the star of the dish.
Artful drizzle of crème fraîche: Use a squeeze bottle to create a delicate, artistic drizzle of crème fraîche on the surface of the soup. This adds a touch of elegance and a creamy contrast to the spicy flavors.
Garnish with toasted pepitas: Sprinkle the toasted pepitas in a visually appealing pattern on top of the soup. The golden-brown pepitas add a delightful crunch and a pop of color to the dish.
Lemon twist accent: Create a small, twisted lemon peel to place delicately on the edge of the bowl. This not only adds a hint of citrus aroma but also serves as an eye-catching, elegant garnish.
Use a custom soup spoon: Present the soup with a custom-designed, elegant soup spoon that complements the overall presentation. The spoon should be a work of art in itself, enhancing the dining experience.

Essential Tools for Making Spicy Squash Soup

Oven: Used for roasting the acorn squash.
Baking sheet: Used to line the baking sheet with parchment paper for roasting the squash.
Parchment paper: Used to line the baking sheet for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
Knife: Used to cut the squash and shallot, and to scoop out the squash flesh.
Cutting board: Used as a surface for cutting the squash and shallot.
Small bowl: Used for scooping the squash flesh and discarding the skin.
Medium pot or Dutch oven: Used for cooking the soup.
Immersion blender: Used to blend the soup until smooth.
Ladle: Used for serving the soup.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure the spices and salt.
Vegetable peeler: Used for peeling the squash if needed.
Citrus juicer: Used for juicing the lemon.
Skillet: Used for toasting the pepitas and spices for garnish.

How To Store and Freeze Spicy Squash Soup

Let the spicy squash soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag.
If using a container, leave about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheat the soup gently in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the soup appears too thick after freezing and reheating, add a little vegetable broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed before serving, as flavors may mellow during storage.
Garnish the reheated soup with fresh pepitas and a dollop of crème fraîche for a delicious and comforting meal.

How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Squash Soup

Reheat the spicy squash soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the soup is evenly warmed throughout, without scorching or losing its creamy texture.
If you're short on time, you can reheat the soup in the microwave. Transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring every 30 seconds, until the soup is heated through. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
For a quick and easy lunch, reheat the leftover soup in a thermos or insulated container. In the morning, heat the soup in a saucepan or microwave until it's piping hot. Pour the hot soup into the thermos and close the lid tightly. The soup will stay warm for several hours, making it perfect for a midday meal at work or school.
If you find that the reheated soup has thickened too much, you can thin it out by stirring in a little vegetable broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency. This will help to maintain the soup's original flavor and texture.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover soup, consider garnishing it with a dollop of crème fraîche, a sprinkle of toasted pepitas, or a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. These toppings will brighten up the flavors and make the reheated soup feel like a brand new meal.

Random Fact About Spicy Squash Soup

The acorn squash used in this recipe is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber and potassium.

Is Making Spicy Squash Soup Economical for Home Cooking?

This spicy squash soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as acorn squash, pumpkin puree, and vegetable broth, are affordable and readily available. The use of spices and herbs adds depth of flavor without breaking the bank. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $10-$12, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall, I rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious taste.

Is This Spicy Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

The spicy squash soup recipe is a relatively healthy option, as it incorporates nutrient-dense ingredients like acorn squash, pumpkin puree, and vegetable broth. The use of olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, while the shallot and garlic offer potential health benefits. The spices, such as ancho chile powder, cumin, oregano, and coriander, not only add flavor but also contain various antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the recipe does include some high-fat ingredients like pepitas and crème fraîche, which should be consumed in moderation.

To further enhance the healthiness of this recipe, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of olive oil used in the soup and garnish, or replace it with a lower-fat cooking spray
Opt for low-fat or non-fat crème fraîche, or replace it with a dollop of plain, low-fat Greek yogurt for a protein boost
Increase the vegetable content by adding carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the soup for added fiber and nutrients
Experiment with using less salt and relying more on the spices for flavor, as excessive sodium intake can be harmful to health
Serve the soup with a side salad or a whole-grain bread for a well-rounded, nutritious meal

Editor's Thoughts on This Spicy Squash Soup Recipe

The spicy squash soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of acorn squash, pumpkin puree, and a variety of spices creates a rich and aromatic soup that is perfect for the fall season. The addition of the toasted pepitas and crème fraiche adds a lovely crunch and creaminess to the dish. The recipe's instructions are clear and easy to follow, making it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Overall, this soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Enhance Your Spicy Squash Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Green Beans: Tender green beans roasted with garlic and a touch of lemon zest for a burst of flavor.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Carrots cooked in a sweet and savory honey glaze, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Juicy pineapple chunks grilled to perfection and served on skewers for a fun and tropical twist.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts roasted with a balsamic glaze and crispy bacon for a delicious and savory side dish.

Cinnamon Roasted Butternut Squash: Butternut squash roasted with cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar for a sweet and fragrant side dish.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Spicy Squash Soup

Spicy Butternut Squash and Apple Soup: This soup combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the tartness of apples for a delightful flavor profile.

Roasted Vegetable and Quinoa Salad: This hearty salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Honey Garlic Glazed Salmon: This recipe features succulent salmon fillets coated in a sticky honey garlic glaze, perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner option.

Mango Coconut Chia Pudding: Indulge in this creamy and tropical dessert made with ripe mangoes, coconut milk, and nutritious chia seeds for a guilt-free treat.

Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken: Impress your guests with a juicy and flavorful roasted chicken seasoned with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Spicy Squash Soup

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious start to any meal.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: Whip up a creamy and cheesy dip featuring spinach and artichokes for a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Serve with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread for a satisfying snack.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a spiced apple crisp, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of tender baked apples and crispy oat topping creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Why trust this Spicy Squash Soup Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a comforting and flavorful meal. The use of acorn squash and pumpkin puree creates a rich and creamy base, while the addition of ancho chile powder, ground cumin, and dried oregano adds a delightful warmth and depth of flavor. The garnishes of pepitas and crème fraiche provide a satisfying crunch and a touch of creaminess. With the careful selection of ingredients and precise instructions, users can trust that this recipe will result in a delicious and satisfying spicy squash soup experience.

Want to share your own spicy squash soup recipe or discuss tips and tricks for making this delicious dish? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's talk all things spicy squash soup!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of squash for this soup?

Yes, you can use a different type of squash, such as butternut squash or kabocha squash, as a substitute for acorn squash. The flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still make a delicious soup.

Can I make this soup ahead of time and reheat it later?

Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated when you're ready to serve. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to avoid scorching.

Can I omit the crème fraîche for a dairy-free version?

Yes, you can omit the crème fraîche for a dairy-free version. You can drizzle a little extra olive oil on top for added richness, or use a dollop of dairy-free yogurt as a substitute.

Is it possible to adjust the level of spiciness in the soup?

Absolutely! You can adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of ancho chile powder in the recipe. Start with a smaller amount if you prefer it less spicy, and add more to taste.

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?

Yes, you can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth if you prefer. It will add a slightly different flavor profile to the soup, but it will still be delicious.