Ingredients
For the Soup
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 lbs/1.4 kg), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium apple, peeled and diced (optional, for natural sweetness)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp ground sage
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk
Optional Garnishes
- Roasted pumpkin seeds
- Fresh parsley or chives
- Coconut cream
- Croutons
- Red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker
- Place the butternut squash, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, vegetable broth, apple, thyme, sage, cinnamon, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker.
- Stir to combine.
2. Cook
- Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours, until the vegetables are very tender.
3. Blend the Soup
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the slow cooker until smooth.
- Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until creamy.
4. Add Coconut Milk
- Stir in the coconut milk.
- Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes on Low until heated through.
5. Serve
- Ladle into bowls and add your favorite garnishes.
Tips
- Choose a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a firm, beige skin.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for extra warmth and depth of flavor.
- For a thicker soup, use slightly less vegetable broth.
- For a thinner consistency, add extra broth after blending.
- Roast the squash before slow cooking for a richer, caramelized flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Grilled vegan cheese sandwiches
- Mixed green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Quinoa or wild rice on the side
Storage
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Nutritional Highlights
- Naturally vegan and dairy-free
- Rich in fiber and antioxidants
- Excellent source of vitamins A and C
- Meal-prep and freezer friendly
This Slow Cooker Vegan Butternut Squash Soup is silky smooth, naturally sweet, and packed with nourishing ingredients, making it a delicious and satisfying plant-based meal for any season. 🎃🥣🌱✨
