Autumn Harvest Acorn Squash and Apple Bisque
This comforting Autumn Harvest Acorn Squash and Apple Bisque is a delightful blend of flavors that captures the essence of fall. The sweetness of acorn squash pairs beautifully with the tartness of fresh apples, creating a velvety soup that is perfect for warming up on chilly days. Served hot or chilled, this bisque is finished with a dollop of tangy yogurt and a swirl of rich cream sherry for an added layer of sophistication. Garnish with freshly grated nutmeg for a festive touch. Ideal for lunch or as a light snack, this bisque will leave your taste buds singing!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
16
Ingredients
Ingredients
small onion
1 (diced)
acorn squash
1 (peeled and seeded)
carrot
1 (peeled and sliced)
olive oil
1 tablespoon
butter
1 tablespoon
apple juice
1.5 cups
vegetarian broth or chicken broth
2 cups
apple
1 (peeled, cored, and chopped)
heavy cream
1/2 cup
salt
to taste
white pepper
to taste
cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon
fresh grated nutmeg
1 pinch
brown sugar or maple syrup
1 teaspoon
yogurt or sour cream
for garnish
grated nutmeg
for garnish
Instructions
1
In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter and olive oil together.
2
Add the diced onion and sliced carrot, sautéing for about 2-3 minutes until softened.
3
Incorporate the peeled and seeded acorn squash, stirring well to combine with the onion and carrot mixture.
4
Pour in the apple juice and chosen broth (either vegetarian or chicken), and bring to a gentle boil.
5
Once boiling, add the chopped apple, salt, white pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar (or maple syrup).
6
Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender.
7
After the vegetables are cooked, stir in the heavy cream and allow to warm through.
8
Using an immersion blender, or in batches with a traditional blender, carefully puree the mixture until smooth and creamy.
9
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot, or cool down and refrigerate for serving cold.
10
To serve, dish out the bisque, swirl a nip of cream sherry into each bowl, and top with a dollop of yogurt or sour cream and a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Autumn Harvest Acorn Squash and Apple Bisque?
It is a velvety soup that blends the sweetness of acorn squash with the tartness of fresh apples, seasoned with fall spices and finished with cream.
What are the primary ingredients in this bisque?
The main ingredients include acorn squash, apple, onion, carrot, apple juice, broth, and heavy cream, along with butter, olive oil, and various spices.
How should I prepare the acorn squash for this recipe?
The acorn squash should be peeled and seeded before being incorporated into the mixture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can make it vegetarian by using vegetarian broth as specified in the ingredients list.
Is there a vegan-friendly option for this bisque?
Yes, the recipe is tagged as vegan-friendly; you would simply need to substitute the butter, heavy cream, and yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
What type of apple should I use?
While any apple works, a tart apple pairs well with the sweetness of the acorn squash. The apple should be peeled, cored, and chopped.
How long do the vegetables need to simmer?
The vegetables should simmer for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are all tender.
Can this bisque be served cold?
Yes, the bisque can be served hot or chilled depending on your preference.
What can I use as a garnish for this soup?
Recommended garnishes include a dollop of yogurt or sour cream, a swirl of cream sherry, and a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.
How do I achieve the creamy texture of the bisque?
Use an immersion blender or a traditional blender (in batches) to puree the cooked vegetable and fruit mixture until it is completely smooth.
Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar?
Yes, the recipe allows for either one teaspoon of brown sugar or maple syrup as a sweetener.
When should I add the heavy cream?
The heavy cream should be stirred in after the vegetables are tender but before you begin the pureeing process.
What spices are used in this recipe?
The bisque is seasoned with salt, white pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
How much apple juice is required?
The recipe calls for 1.5 cups of apple juice.
What is the first step in the instructions?
The first step is to melt the butter and olive oil together in a large pot over medium heat.
How long should I saute the onion and carrot?
Saute the diced onion and sliced carrot for about 2 to 3 minutes until they have softened.
Can I use chicken broth?
Yes, the recipe suggests using either 2 cups of vegetarian broth or chicken broth.
Is cream sherry necessary?
While optional, a swirl of cream sherry adds a layer of sophistication and depth to the finished dish.
What is a good alternative to this soup?
It is described as a great pumpkin soup alternative for those looking for a different fall flavor profile.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 16 ingredients in total, including garnishes and seasonings.
How should the carrot be prepared?
The carrot should be peeled and sliced before cooking.
What kind of pepper is recommended?
White pepper is recommended for this bisque to maintain the color and provide a subtle heat.
Can I use a traditional blender?
Yes, if you don't have an immersion blender, you can use a traditional blender by pureeing the soup in batches.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy lunch option and contains fresh vegetables and fruit.
How much nutmeg should I use for the garnish?
A light sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg is recommended for the final touch.
What heat setting should I use for simmering?
After bringing the mixture to a boil, you should reduce the heat to low to let it simmer.
Can I use sour cream instead of yogurt?
Yes, the recipe suggests using either yogurt or sour cream as a garnish.
What size onion is needed?
The recipe calls for one small onion, diced.
Is this a good meal for cold weather?
Absolutely, it is specifically noted as being perfect for warming up on chilly days.
Can I adjust the seasoning?
Yes, the instructions suggest tasting and adjusting the seasoning after pureeing the mixture.