This Miso Squash Soup is the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and comforting, with the rich flavors of butternut squash complemented by the umami depth of miso. The coconut milk adds a velvety smoothness, making each spoonful a delight.
It’s not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. This soup is ideal for a quick weeknight meal or as a starter for a cozy dinner party. Plus, with its plant-based and gluten-free qualities, it’s a versatile option that everyone can enjoy. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor that takes it to the next level!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
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1 small yellow onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1-inch piece of ginger, grated
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1 tablespoon white miso paste
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4 cups vegetable broth
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1/2 cup coconut milk
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Directions:
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In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent.
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Add the garlic and ginger and cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add the cubed butternut squash to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for about 5 minutes.
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Add the miso paste and vegetable broth to the pot, and bring the mixture to a boil.
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Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
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Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup.
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Stir in the coconut milk, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.
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Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 190 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Miso Squash Soup: A Comforting, Vegan Delight for Every Season
If you’re in the mood for a warm, soothing, and flavorful soup, then look no further than this Miso Squash Soup. With the perfect blend of sweet butternut squash and savory miso, it delivers both comfort and nourishment in every bite. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it as a comforting appetizer for a special gathering, this velvety soup is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
The Origins and Appeal of Miso Soup
Miso, a fermented soybean paste, has long been a staple in Japanese cuisine. It’s known for its umami-rich flavor and its ability to add depth to a variety of dishes, from soups to marinades to sauces. Traditionally used in simple miso soups, it has grown in popularity worldwide for its unique taste and health benefits.
Butternut squash, on the other hand, is a versatile winter vegetable known for its mild sweetness and creamy texture when cooked. It’s often used in soups, curries, and roasts, and it pairs exceptionally well with warm spices and savory ingredients. In this recipe, the combination of butternut squash and miso creates a perfect harmony of flavors that’s not only delicious but also nourishing.
This Miso Squash Soup brings together the best of both worlds, combining the umami punch of miso with the rich, natural sweetness of butternut squash. The addition of coconut milk provides a creamy texture, which balances the boldness of the miso. What makes this soup even more appealing is its plant-based nature, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians. It’s also gluten-free, so it can be enjoyed by people with dietary restrictions.
Why You’ll Love Miso Squash Soup
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Perfect for All Seasons:
Miso Squash Soup is the ideal dish to enjoy during the colder months, but it’s so comforting that it can be enjoyed year-round. The butternut squash provides the warmth of a winter vegetable, while the savory miso adds an earthy depth that works beautifully in all seasons. Whether you’re making it for a chilly autumn evening or to warm up after a long day of outdoor activities, this soup will never go out of style. -
A Healthy Comfort Food Option:
Comfort food often gets a bad rap for being unhealthy or overly indulgent, but this Miso Squash Soup is an exception. It’s made with wholesome, nutrient-packed ingredients. Butternut squash is high in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and healthy skin. Miso is fermented, meaning it’s rich in probiotics that promote gut health. The coconut milk not only adds a luscious texture but is also a good source of healthy fats, making this soup both filling and nourishing. -
Quick and Easy to Make:
One of the best things about this Miso Squash Soup is how easy it is to prepare. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting but don’t have the time to make a complicated meal. Once the squash is roasted or simmered, everything comes together in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. You can even make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week or freeze for later! -
Customizable to Your Taste:
While this soup recipe is fantastic as is, it’s highly customizable. Feel free to experiment with different types of squash, such as acorn or kabocha, for subtle variations in flavor. You can also adjust the amount of miso depending on your preferred level of umami, or add other spices like turmeric, cinnamon, or cumin to give the soup an extra layer of flavor. For a little heat, add some chili flakes or a dash of sriracha to spice things up. You can even swap out the coconut milk for almond milk or vegetable stock if you prefer a lighter version. -
A Vegan and Gluten-Free Option:
For those following a vegan or gluten-free lifestyle, Miso Squash Soup is an ideal option. It’s plant-based and free from animal products, making it perfect for anyone on a vegan or vegetarian diet. The use of coconut milk ensures that it remains dairy-free while adding a luxurious creaminess to the soup. Additionally, miso paste is naturally gluten-free, so the soup is suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a healthy, plant-based dish, this soup checks all the boxes.
The Health Benefits of Miso Squash Soup
This soup isn’t just delicious it’s also packed with health benefits thanks to its star ingredients.
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Butternut Squash: This vibrant vegetable is rich in vitamins A and C, which are important for immune function, skin health, and eye health. It also contains fiber, which helps promote healthy digestion and keep you feeling full longer. The antioxidants in butternut squash, particularly beta-carotene, help protect the body against free radical damage, which can contribute to aging and disease.
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Miso Paste: Miso paste is a fermented food that contains probiotics, beneficial bacteria that promote gut health. A healthy gut microbiome is essential for overall well-being, as it affects everything from digestion to immunity to mental health. Additionally, miso contains high amounts of B vitamins, which play a crucial role in energy production and red blood cell formation.
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Coconut Milk: Coconut milk is a plant-based alternative to dairy that adds creaminess to the soup without the saturated fats found in heavy cream. It’s also a good source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are a type of healthy fat that the body uses for energy. Coconut milk can support brain health, boost metabolism, and help with nutrient absorption.
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Ginger and Garlic: Both ginger and garlic have been used for centuries for their medicinal properties. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion, while garlic is known for its immune-boosting benefits. Together, these two ingredients add a burst of flavor and health benefits to the soup.
How to Serve Miso Squash Soup
This soup is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with various accompaniments to make it a more substantial meal.
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Serve with a Side of Crusty Bread: A bowl of warm, crusty bread is the perfect sidekick to a hearty soup like this one. You can use gluten-free bread if needed, or opt for a baguette, sourdough, or another favorite bread variety. The bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, soaking up the creamy liquid and adding a delightful crunch.
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Top with Fresh Herbs: Garnishing your Miso Squash Soup with fresh cilantro, parsley, or even a few leaves of basil can enhance the flavor and add color to the dish. These herbs bring a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
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Add a Protein Boost: If you’re looking to make the soup more filling, consider adding a plant-based protein, such as chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh. Tofu can be pan-fried and added as a topping, while tempeh can be crumbled into the soup for added texture. If you’re not vegan, a soft-boiled egg or grilled chicken breast would also complement the flavors nicely.
Storing and Freezing Miso Squash Soup
This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, making it a great option for meal prep. It’s even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. When storing, allow the soup to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container.
If you want to make a large batch and save it for later, Miso Squash Soup freezes beautifully. Just portion it into individual servings and store it in freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion:
Miso Squash Soup is a comforting, nourishing, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Its combination of sweet butternut squash and savory miso makes it a unique and flavorful option for anyone seeking a healthy, plant-based meal. With its quick prep time, customization options, and health benefits, this soup is not only a delicious meal but also a great addition to any well-balanced diet. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply looking for a cozy dish to warm up to, this Miso Squash Soup is the perfect choice. So go ahead make a pot today and enjoy the flavors of fall (or any season) in a bowl!