Butternut squash soup: to peel or not to peel? the answer is here

When it comes to making butternut squash soup, one of the most common questions is: does butternut squash need to be peeled for soup? The answer is a resounding yes and no. While peeling butternut squash is not strictly necessary, it does offer several advantages that can enhance the flavor, texture, and appearance of your soup.

Why Peel Butternut Squash for Soup?

1. Improved Flavor

Butternut squash skin has a slightly bitter taste that can be noticeable in soup. Peeling the squash removes this bitterness, resulting in a sweeter, more flavorful soup.

2. Smoother Texture

The skin of butternut squash is tough and fibrous. When cooked, it can give the soup a grainy texture. Peeling the squash removes these fibers, resulting in a smoother, more velvety soup.

3. Enhanced Appearance

Butternut squash skin is not particularly attractive, especially when cooked. Peeling the squash gives the soup a more vibrant, appetizing appearance.

When to Leave Butternut Squash Unpeeled

While peeling butternut squash is generally recommended for soup, there are a few cases where it may not be necessary:

1. If Using a High-Powered Blender

If you have a high-powered blender, such as a Vitamix or Blendtec, you can get away with leaving the skin on. The blender will pulverize the skin into tiny pieces that will not affect the texture or flavor of the soup.

2. If Roasting the Squash First

Roasting butternut squash before adding it to soup caramelizes the natural sugars in the squash, enhancing the flavor. The skin also crisps up and becomes less noticeable in the soup.

How to Peel Butternut Squash

Peeling butternut squash is easy, but it can be a bit messy. Here are the steps:

1. Wash the squash thoroughly.
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise from stem to tip.
3. Scoop out the seeds and stringy pulp.
4. Use a sharp knife to peel off the skin. You can also use a vegetable peeler, but it may be more difficult to get a clean cut.
5. Rinse the peeled squash thoroughly.

Other Tips for Making Butternut Squash Soup

In addition to peeling or not peeling the squash, there are a few other tips that can help you make the best butternut squash soup:

1. Use Fresh Squash

Fresh butternut squash has a much better flavor than canned or frozen squash.

2. Roast or Sauté the Squash

Roasting or sautéing the squash before adding it to the soup intensifies the flavor.

3. Add Spices

Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger can enhance the flavor of butternut squash soup.

4. Use a Good Broth

The broth you use will have a big impact on the flavor of the soup. Use a flavorful broth, such as chicken or vegetable broth.

5. Don’t Overcook the Soup

Butternut squash soup should be cooked until the squash is tender, but not mushy. Overcooking the soup will make it less flavorful.

Popular Questions

1. Can I use canned butternut squash for soup?

Yes, you can use canned butternut squash for soup, but fresh squash will always have a better flavor.

2. How can I store butternut squash soup?

Butternut squash soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make butternut squash soup ahead of time?

Yes, butternut squash soup can be made ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.