RECIPE: Butternut Squash Leek Soup


 

Butternut -Leek Soup with Surimi and Mussels, topped with fresh fennel. 

This is one of our favorite comfort foods. It can be made several days ahead and is still good. We typically freeze (or can) leftovers. Some small shrimp, mussels or surimi (or any combination of these) can (and should) be added to give it some protein for a complete meal. Hope you enjoy it like we do!!

  • INGREDIENTS
  • 4 1/2 pounds butternut squash, halved lengthwise 
  • 5 tablespoons unsalted butter 
  • 4 large leeks, white and tender green parts, coarsely chopped 
  • 7 fresh thyme sprigs or 1 teaspoon dried 
  • 5 cups chicken stock or unsalted canned broth 
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt 
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 
  • 1/2 cup sour cream 
  • About 3 tablespoons chopped chives 8 slices of bacon,

INSTRUCTIONS
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°. Place the squash, cut side down, on a baking sheet and bake until tender, about 40 minutes. Let cool slightly. Using a spoon, scoop out and discard the seeds. Scrape the squash from the skin. 
  2. Meanwhile, in a large heavy saucepan or flameproof casserole, melt the butter over low heat. Add the leeks and thyme and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft and browned, about 40 minutes. Discard the thyme sprigs.
  3. Stir in the stock and the squash. Simmer over moderate heat for 20 minutes. In a blender or food processor, puree the soup in batches until smooth. Pour the soup back into the pan and season with the salt and pepper.
  4. To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with 1 tablespoon sour cream, 1 teaspoon chives and a sprinkling of the bacon.

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