Slow Cooker Fall Harvest Soup
This fall-inspired soup is made by slow cooking a mixture of caramelized squash, root vegetables, and aromatic herbs until tender and velvety. The final dish has a smooth, thick broth with vibrant seasonal flavors and a fragrant, comforting aroma. It features a hearty texture with soft vegetables infused with spices, perfect for cozy meals.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1 pound butternut squash peeled and cubed
- 2 large carrots peeled and chopped
- 2 parsnips parsnips peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon olive oil for roasting
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash, carrots, and parsnips with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet and roast until they are tender and slightly caramelized, about 25-30 minutes.
- While the vegetables roast, dice the onion and mince the garlic. When the veggies are done, transfer the roasted pieces into the slow cooker along with the diced onion and minced garlic.
- Add the vegetable broth, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt and pepper into the slow cooker. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the vegetables are very soft and bloom with fragrant aroma. The kitchen will fill with cozy, spicy scents during this time.
- Once cooking is complete, use an immersion blender to carefully blend the soup directly in the slow cooker until it reaches a smooth, velvety consistency. Alternatively, transfer the mixture to a blender in batches, blending until smooth, then return to the slow cooker.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. For an extra layer of warmth, sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, if desired.
- Pour the hot, smooth soup into bowls, and optionally garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Serve immediately for a comforting autumn meal.
Notes
Roasting the vegetables enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the flavor. Adjust spices according to your taste for a personalized touch.