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Butternut Bisque

SMART SUBSTITUTION Half-and-half and chicken broth replace the standard heavy cream, lowering the calorie count of this vegetable bisque without diminishing its appeal. For a different flavor, use ground nutmeg or cloves in place of cinnamon, or add a little chili powder for a Southwestern version.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    serves 12

Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, sliced
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, plus more for garnish (optional)
Coarse salt
1 large butternut squash (about 4 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cut into 1-inch cubes
1 can (14.5 ounces) low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup half-and-half
3 cups water
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
3/4 cup sour cream, for serving

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    In a large saucepan, heat butter over medium. Add onion, garlic, thyme, cinnamon, and cayenne to taste. Season with salt, and cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is softened, 5 to 7 minutes.

    Step 2

    Add squash, broth, half-and-half, and the water. Bring to a boil; reduce to a simmer, and cook until squash is tender, about 20 minutes.

    Step 3

    Working in batches, purée in a blender until smooth (do not fill jar more than halfway each time). Stir in lemon juice; season with salt. To serve, divide bisque among bowls and top each with 1 tablespoon sour cream; garnish with additional cayenne, if desired.

  2. Freezing Soup

    Step 4

    Let soup cool completely, then pour into airtight containers, leaving 1 inch of space at top. Freeze up to 3 months. Thaw in microwave or overnight in refrigerator. Heat with a bit of water, stirring occasionally. Add sour cream just before serving.

  3. Nutrition Information

    Step 5

    (Per Serving)

    Step 6

    Calories: 117

    Step 7

    Fat: 5.4g (3.3g Saturated Fat)

    Step 8

    Protein: 2.6g

    Step 9

    Carbohydrates: 17.1g

    Step 10

    Fiber: 2.8g

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