6cupsbutternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded and cut into 1 inch chunks
3cupssweet potatoes (about 1 lb), peeled and cut into 1 inch chunks
8cupschicken broth
1 ½teaspoonsalt
½teaspoonground black pepper
1Honeycrisp apple, cored, peeled and cut into 1 inch chunks
3tablespoonhoney
¾teaspoonground cinnamon
¼teaspoonground cloves
¼teaspoonground nutmeg
1cupheavy cream
3tablespoonthyme, diced
3ouncesgoat cheese, crumbled
Dash olive oil
Instructions
In a large pot, melt the butter and add the onions and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add butternut squash, sweet potatoes, chicken broth and salt and pepper to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and cook until vegetables are tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Turn the heat off and add the apples. Puree with a handheld immersion blender until smooth. You can also add to blender in batches and puree.
Add the honey, cinnamon, ground cloves, nutmeg and heavy cream and stir. Bring to simmer and taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you need to thin the soup, just add some water. Serve in bowls and top with some goat cheese, thyme and a dash of olive oil.
Notes
Use quality low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. Remember a lot of the flavor will come from the broth.
Use an immersion blender to puree the vegetables. It is much easier than adding to the blender in batches.
Do not skip on adding the heavy cream as it adds richness and mouthfeel you wouldn’t get otherwise. If you don’t want to use heavy cream, you could try coconut milk.
Adjust the spices to your liking. Start with a small amount and gradually add more as needed. Remember, you can always add more but can't take it away.