Paraguayan Winter Squash Soup

Paraguayan Winter Squash Soup Recipe - Vegetarian Soup from Paraguay

Region / culture: Paraguay | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Paraguayan Winter Squash Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for warming up on a cold day. This soup is made with butternut squash, onions, carrots, garlic, tomato purée, and hot chilies, giving it a rich and spicy flavor profile. It is a popular dish in Paraguay, where it is often served as a comforting meal during the winter months.

History

Paraguayan Winter Squash Soup has been a staple in Paraguayan cuisine for generations. The recipe has been passed down through families and is often made with ingredients that are readily available in the region. The combination of butternut squash, onions, carrots, and chilies creates a delicious and satisfying soup that is loved by many.

Ingredients

2 tbsp butter
2 medium onions, chopped
2 medium carrots, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, chopped
1 cup tomato purée
2 fresh, hot chilies, seeded and chopped
2.5 lb (1.13 kg) butternut squash, peeled and cubed
5 cups low-sodium chicken broth (remove fat) (or vegetable stock)
pepper to taste
a very small amount of salt (optional)
lime wedges

How to prepare

In a large saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat.
Add the onions, carrots, and garlic, and stir.
Cook for 3 minutes, then cover the pan.
Reduce the heat and cook for an additional 3 or 4 minutes, until the vegetables are very tender.
Stir in the tomato puree, chilies, butternut squash, and chicken broth.
Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes.
Mash the squash pieces with a potato masher or the back of a spoon (the soup does not need to be completely smooth). Season to taste (optional) and serve.
Serve with lime wedges for squeezing into each bowl of soup.
Serve with corn bread.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Stir in a can of black beans or corn for added texture and flavor.
Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are very tender before adding the tomato purée and butternut squash.

- Mash the squash pieces with a potato masher or the back of a spoon to create a chunky texture in the soup.

- Adjust the amount of chilies to suit your taste preferences – add more for a spicier soup or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Paraguayan Winter Squash Soup with a side of corn bread for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with lime wedges for a burst of citrus flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to simmer the soup for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Mash the squash pieces to create a chunky texture in the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use pumpkin or acorn squash in place of butternut squash.

- Substitute olive oil for butter for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Paraguayan Winter Squash Soup in individual bowls garnished with a sprig of fresh cilantro or parsley. - Drizzle with a swirl of olive oil for a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this soup with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

- Serve with a glass of white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

180

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 28g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 8g

Fats

- Total Fat: 4g

- Saturated Fat: 2g

Proteins

- Protein: 3g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 280%

- Vitamin C: 40%

- Calcium: 8%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains dairy (butter)

Summary

Paraguayan Winter Squash Soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy option for a comforting meal.

Summary

Paraguayan Winter Squash Soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for warming up on a cold day. Made with butternut squash, onions, carrots, and chilies, this soup is full of flavor and is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Serve with a side of corn bread and enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. It was a chilly winter day in Paraguay, and my dear friend Maria invited me over for a warm bowl of soup. As soon as I walked into her cozy kitchen, the aroma of simmering vegetables and spices filled the air.

Maria greeted me with a warm smile and handed me a steaming bowl of Winter Squash Soup. As I took my first spoonful, I was instantly hooked. The rich, velvety texture of the soup combined with the earthy flavors of the squash and spices was like nothing I had ever tasted before.

I begged Maria for the recipe, but she just laughed and said it was a family secret that had been passed down for generations. Determined to learn how to make this delicious soup, I spent the entire afternoon in Maria's kitchen, watching her every move and taking notes on every ingredient she used.

As the soup simmered on the stove, Maria shared with me the story of how her grandmother had taught her how to make this traditional Paraguayan dish. She explained that Winter Squash Soup was a staple in their household during the cold winter months, providing warmth and comfort to her family.

Maria's grandmother had learned the recipe from her own mother, who had learned it from her mother before her. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, each family adding their own unique twist to make it their own.

After hours of watching and learning from Maria, I finally felt confident enough to try making the soup on my own. I carefully measured out each ingredient, following Maria's instructions to the letter. As the soup simmered on the stove, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down for generations.

When the soup was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and served it to my family. As they took their first bites, their faces lit up with delight. They couldn't believe that I had made such a delicious and authentic Paraguayan Winter Squash Soup.

From that day on, Winter Squash Soup became a regular feature on our dinner table. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just for a cozy night in by the fire. Each time I made the soup, I felt a connection to Maria and her family, knowing that I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down through the generations.

As the years passed, I continued to make Winter Squash Soup, adding my own unique twists and flavors to make it my own. I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, spreading the warmth and comfort of this traditional Paraguayan dish to all who tasted it.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, stirring a pot of Winter Squash Soup on the stove, I can't help but feel grateful for the day I first saw that recipe. It has brought me joy, connection, and a sense of tradition that I will carry with me for the rest of my days. And as I take my first spoonful of the rich, velvety soup, I know that I am not just tasting a dish but a piece of history, passed down through the generations, from one cook to another.