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thomas keller butternut squash soup

Thomas Keller Butternut Squash Soup Recipe

Ingredients
  

For the Soup:

  • 1 butternut squash 3 to 3.5 lbs
  • 2 tbsp canola oil
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 sprigs sage
  • 1 cup thinly sliced leeks about 2 leeks
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced carrots about 2 carrots
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced shallots
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced yellow onions
  • 6 garlic cloves smashed
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken stock more if needed
  • Bouquet garni: 8 sprigs thyme 2 sprigs Italian parsley, 2 bay leaves, 1/2 tsp black peppercorns wrapped in cheesecloth
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter

For Garnish:

  • 1/4 cup crème fraîche
  • Freshly grated nutmeg to taste
  • 1 tbsp minced chives
  • Extra-virgin olive oil for drizzling

Instructions
 

Roast the Squash

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cut the squash bulb in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and brush the inside and outside with 1.5 teaspoons of canola oil. Season with salt and pepper and place a sage sprig inside each half.
  • Place the halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with foil and roast for about 1 hour, or until tender. Cool, then scoop out the flesh and discard the sage.
  • Peel the neck of the squash, cut it into 1/2-inch cubes, and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

  • Heat the remaining canola oil in a stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the leeks, carrots, shallots, and onions. Cook for about 6 minutes, stirring frequently.
  • Add the diced squash, garlic, 1.5 teaspoons of salt, and 0.5 teaspoons of pepper. Cook gently for 3 minutes, stirring to avoid browning.
  • Stir in the honey and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Simmer the Soup

  • Add the stock and bouquet garni to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, until the squash is tender.
  • Add the roasted squash to the pot and simmer gently for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Remove and discard the bouquet garni.

Purée and Finish

  • Purée the soup in batches using a blender or an immersion blender until smooth. Strain through a fine sieve for an extra silky texture.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • In a small skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat until it browns and becomes fragrant. Carefully add to the soup and stir.
  • If the soup is too thick, add more stock to reach your desired consistency.

Garnish and Serve

  • Whisk crème fraîche with a pinch of nutmeg until it holds a soft shape. Chill until ready to use.
  • Serve the soup in bowls. Add a dollop of crème fraîche, sprinkle with chives, and drizzle with olive oil. For added crunch, garnish with toasted nuts or seeds.