Origin Harissa Butternut Squash Soup

This dish is inspired by North African cuisine, where harissa—a spicy chili paste—is a staple ingredient. Traditionally used in stews and sauces, harissa adds warmth and complexity, making it a perfect complement to the naturally sweet and creamy butternut squash.

What I Love About This Recipe

I love how this soup blends sweetness and spice in a perfectly balanced way. The harissa not only adds heat but also enhances the depth of flavor, making each spoonful exciting. The creamy texture makes it feel rich and luxurious while remaining healthy and nutritious. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make with just a few simple ingredients!

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Harissa Butternut Squash Soup

Recipe by RecipeWikki

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

20

minutes

Cooking time

35

minutes

Calories

231

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 tablespoon harissa paste (adjust to taste)

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• ½ cup coconut milk (or heavy cream for a richer texture)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Directions

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
• Stir in minced garlic, cumin, coriander, and harissa paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
• Add the cubed butternut squash and mix well to coat it with the spices.
• Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes until the squash is tender.
• Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, blend in batches in a regular blender.
• Stir in the coconut milk and lemon juice, adjusting salt and pepper to taste.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.

Notes

• Roasting the butternut squash before blending enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Serve with warm crusty bread or a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess.

The post Harissa Butternut Squash Soup appeared first on RecipeWikki.

Origin of This Recipe

Harissa originates from Tunisia and is widely used across North African and Middle Eastern cuisine. Traditionally, it’s made with roasted red chilies, garlic, olive oil, and aromatic spices. When blended with sweet butternut squash, it a harmonious balance of heat and natural sweetness.

What I Love About This Recipe

• Deep, smoky flavors with a subtle heat.
• Velvety smooth texture that’s perfect for dipping bread.
• Nutritious and wholesome, packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
• Easy to make ahead and freezes well for later.

Also Read : Best Chicken Salad

Harissa Butternut Squash Soup

Recipe by RecipeWikki

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

35

minutes

Cooking time

55

minutes

Calories

231

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp harissa paste (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp ground cumin

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• ½ cup coconut milk or heavy cream

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Juice of ½ lemon

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

• Toasted pumpkin seeds or croutons, for topping (optional)

Directions

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant.
• Stir in harissa paste, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for 1 minute.
• Add butternut squash and season with salt and pepper.
• Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until squash is tender.
• Blend the soup until smooth using an immersion blender or regular blender.
• Stir in coconut milk and adjust seasoning.
• Finish with lemon juice for brightness.
• Garnish with fresh herbs and toasted pumpkin seeds, then serve hot.

Notes

• For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• For a smoky depth, roast the butternut squash before adding it to the soup.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Pair with warm pita, naan, or crusty bread for a hearty meal.

The post Harissa Butternut Squash Soup appeared first on RecipeWikki.