Butternut Squash Soup

This is one of my husband and I's FAVORITE soup recipes. If you like butternut squash you will LOVE THIS!! I typically serve it with cubed french or sourdough bread for dipping. The sweetness of the cream and squash with a little bit of a spicy "kick" really makes this soup unbelievable! :)

NOTE: I would recommend adjusting the amount of cream according to your taste (I like a velvety texture) as well as the jalapeno pepper depending on whether or not you like it hot! Re-season with S&P before serving to your taste...

Ingredients

1 Butternut squash, about 2 pounds

2 tablespoons peanut oil

1 cup chopped onion

1 1/2 teaspoons chopped garlic

1/2 cup thinly sliced carrot

1/2 teaspoons ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 tablespoon finely minced jalapeno pepper

2 cups chicken stock

1/4 cup heavy cream

Salt & Pepper (to taste)

Directions

Cut the squash in half and scoop out the seeds. Peel the squash and cut into 1 inch pieces. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook, stirring often, until they begin to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the carrot, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, and then add squash, jalapeno pepper, and chicken stock. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 15- 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Remove from the heat and puree the soup using an immersion blender, or transfer to a blender or food processor. Puree until smooth. Return to the heat, add the cream and adjust the seasonings.