A good bowl of hot soup on a cold winter day, what better way to celebrate the Winter Solstice. Add a crisp salad, fresh bread and a glass of wine perfect for celebrating the changing rotation of the earth. I always felt there was something mystical about a solstice reminding me four times a year that the earth and life are transient, ever-changing and by embracing this fact life is perfectly imperfect. 

My recipe for Butternut Squash soup with a touch of apple captures the essence of the winter season with just a touch of aromatic spices that don’t overpower the squash and apple. I use store purchased cut and cleaned butternut squash when I make a small batch of soup; making the work and clean up easier.

INGREDIENTS

1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)

1 celery rib, chopped (about 3/4 cup)

1 carrot, chopped (about 3/4 cup)

2 Tbsp butter

1 package(20 oz.) butternut squash

1 tart granny smith apple, peeled, cored, chopped

3 cups vegetable broth

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

 1/8 cayenne

 salt and pepper to taste

1. Heat a large thick-bottomed pot on medium-high heat. Melt the butter in the pot and let it foam up and recede. Add the onion, carrot, and celery and sauté for 5 minutes. Lower the heat if the vegetables begin to brown.

2.  Add the butternut squash, apple, and broth Bring to boil. Reduce to a simmer, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or so, until the squash and carrots have softened.

3. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup, or work in batches and purée the soup in a standing blender.

4. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy!

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