Skip to main content

Creamy Red Kuri Squash Soup

I look forward to seeing the stunning array of brightly colored winter squash that appears at the market every autumn. Of all the varieties, red kuri squash (shown below) is my favorite for savory dishes. It has a rich, full flavor that makes this simple soup exceptional. The soup lasts for several days in the refrigerator. To reheat, add a little stock or water, because it will thicken over time.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    serves 4 to 6

Ingredients

4 heaping cups coarsely diced squash, seeds removed
1 quart vegetable stock
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 yellow onion, sliced
1 sweet apple, cored and sliced
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch of cayenne pepper

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Place the squash in a soup pot with the stock and a dash of salt and bring to a boil. Simmer, covered, until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the squash, reserving the stock.

    Step 2

    Heat a skillet over high heat and add 2 tablespoons of the olive oil. Add the onion and sauté until it begins to brown. Add the apple, cinnamon, cayenne, and a dash of salt and sauté until the apples are soft and lightly browned.

    Step 3

    In batches, if necessary, combine the squash, onion, apple, and stock in a blender. Purée until smooth, adding the remaining tablespoon of olive oil as it blends. Add a little extra stock or water if the soup is too thick. Taste and season with salt.

    Step 4

    Serve hot with a few grinds of black pepper.

Lucid Food
Read More
Using two entire lemons—pith, skin, and all—cranks up the citrus flavor in this classic dessert.
Keep this easy frittata recipe on hand for quick breakfasts, impressive brunches, and fridge clean-out meals.
This is the type of soup that, at first glance, might seem a little…unexciting. But you’re underestimating the power of mushrooms, which do the heavy lifting.
Like Greek lemon potatoes and gochujang chicken stir-fry.
Turn humble onions into this thrifty yet luxe pasta dinner.
Like fattoush salad and strawberry shortcake roll.
Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.
This chicken salad nails it—creamy, herby, and endlessly riffable.