Velouté of Squash Soup

Welcome back to another exciting edition of "Flavor of the Week." Today, we're diving headfirst into the enchanting world of Velouté of Squash Soup. But before we unveil the magic of this velvety delight, let's unravel the mystery behind the term "velouté." Velouté: The Art of Creamy Elegance Contrary to what you might think, not all cream soups are thick and heavy. Enter the realm of Velouté soups, where the name isn't about the use of cream but rather the luxurious, velvety texture they offer. Imagine a soup so smooth it pours like heavy whipping cream, yet maintains a light, silky body that dances on your taste buds. The beauty is that you can transform almost any ingredient into a silky masterpiece. Chicken, fish, starchy legumes—they're all fair game. For today, I am showcasing the beauty of Kabocha Squash in the oh so delicious Velouté of Squash Soup. Here's How to Create this Culinary Masterpiece: Ingredients:

• Butter (about 2 tablespoons)

• Finely chopped onion (about 2 tablespoons)

• Finely chopped garlic (1 or 2 cloves, depending on size)

• Flour (or rice flour for a gluten-free option) about 2 tablespoons

• Chopped Kabocha squash (approx. 1 cup)

• Chicken or vegetable stock (enough to cover the squash, plus half an inch)

• Optional: whipping cream (a few tablespoons)

• Garnishes: Chopped herbs, toasted sliced almonds, Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

• Start by sweating the onion, garlic, and squash in the butter. Proper sweating means cooking them on low to medium heat just until they soften, without allowing them to brown. This step is vital for achieving a smooth and subtle soup.

• Add the flour (or rice flour) and stir to coat the ingredients well. This will form a roux, which will help thicken the soup. Cook for about 2 minutes to eliminate any raw flour taste.

• Pour in the stock and bring the mixture to a quick simmer. Let it simmer until the squash is soft and easily pierced with a fork.

• To ensure the soup is not too thin, remove some of the liquid.

• Now, it's time for the magic! Blenderize the soup very well, for at least 2 minutes, until it reaches a beautifully smooth consistency.

• Taste and adjust the final seasoning and consistency to your liking.

• If you desire extra richness, gently temper in the whipping cream.

• Ladle this velvety creation into warm bowls, and feel free to get creative with your garnishes. Chopped herbs, toasted sliced almonds, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add that perfect finishing touch.

Bon Appétit! There you have it—Velouté of Squash Soup, a culinary masterpiece that's both creamy and elegant. A symphony of flavors and textures that will warm your soul. So, get your apron on, gather your ingredients, and embark on a delightful soup-making adventure. Stay tuned for more culinary inspiration in my "Flavor of the Week" series. And as always, if you have any questions or simply want to share your kitchen triumphs, hit reply. I'm here to chat and share in your culinary journey. Let's Rock the Kitchen together! Love, Kerstin