Contents
Introduction
If you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal, this Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup is the perfect choice. Rich with flavor from the combination of bacon, fresh herbs, and sweet vegetables, this soup is easy to prepare and packed with nutrition. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, it’s sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 slices bacon, diced
½ medium sweet onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 fresh sage leaves, minced
3 sprigs fresh thyme
2 ½ pounds butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
3 large carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 rib celery, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 Granny Smith apple, cored and chopped
4 cups chicken stock
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
⅓ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
12 minutes
Total Time
27 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 to 8
Enjoy your homemade Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Set a 6-quart Instant Pot® to the high sauté setting. Add diced bacon and cook until brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Aromatics
Add diced onion to the pot and cook, stirring frequently, until translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, minced sage, and fresh thyme sprigs until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Stock
Stir in the cubed butternut squash, carrots, celery, chopped apple, chicken stock, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Soup
Select the manual setting; adjust pressure to high, and set the time for 12 minutes. When finished cooking, quick-release the pressure according to the manufacturer’s directions; remove and discard the thyme sprigs.
Step 5: Blend and Season the Soup
Stir in the heavy cream. Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until the desired consistency is reached; season with additional salt and pepper, to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve immediately, garnished with the crispy bacon and chopped chives.
Notes
Bacon Alternatives
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon and use olive oil for sautéing.
Storage Suggestions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing
This soup can be frozen. Ensure it cools completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.
Consistency Adjustment
For a thinner soup, you can add more chicken stock or water after blending to reach your preferred consistency.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of oil over relatively high heat. In this recipe, diced bacon is sautéed until crispy, followed by onions, garlic, and herbs to develop flavors.
Pressure Cooking
Pressure cooking utilizes steam to cook food quickly under high pressure. The Instant Pot allows food to cook faster, making it perfect for soups. The butternut squash and other ingredients are cooked under high pressure for 12 minutes.
Pureeing
Pureeing transforms a solid mixture into a smooth consistency. After cooking, an immersion blender is used to puree the soup to the desired texture, yielding a creamy butternut squash soup.
FAQ
Can I make this soup without bacon?
Yes, you can omit the bacon for a vegetarian version. You may substitute with olive oil and consider adding smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a lighter option.
Is there a substitute for butternut squash?
Yes, you may use other types of winter squash, such as acorn or pumpkin, although the flavor may vary slightly.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like sweet potatoes, parsnips, or red bell peppers for additional flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This Instant Pot Butternut Squash Soup is a delightful combination of flavors that creates a warm and comforting dish. The richness of the bacon, the sweetness of the butternut squash and apple, along with the aromatic herbs come together beautifully. It is an excellent choice for a cozy meal, and its creamy texture makes it stand out. Enjoy this soup as a hearty starter or pair it with crusty bread for a satisfying main course.
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