Pumpkin Soup

This is really a pumpkin-squash soup, but for some reason people don't like the sound of "squash" as much as they like the sound of "pumpkin." I like roasting the squash and pumpkin first, but you can also throw the cubed squash right into the pan, add the simmering chicken broth and use a few cans of pumpkin instead. A stick blender makes the preparation really easy!

Yield: Makes 10 servings

Party Planning: The cookie dough can be cut out and frozen on baking sheets lined with parchment. Transfer to a resealable box once solid and bake direct from frozen, as described below. The baked and sandwiched cookies can be stored in an airtight container in a cool place for up to 1 day.

Ingredients:

• Cubed Butternut Squash, about 6 cups
• 1 Tablespoon butter
• 2-4 cans pumpkin, or a few halved small and scoop out the flesh
• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 1 cup finely chopped celery
• 1 cup finely chopped carrots
• 2 apples (Granny Smith or Gala) peeled, cored and chopped
• 1/2 cup white wine or vermouth
• 10 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
• Half a nutmeg, grated, or 1 teaspoon grated nutmeg
• Salt to taste
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• Real maple syrup – about 1/2 cup, or to taste
• (1 cup cream or half & half optional)

Directions:

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add olive oil, then the onions. Stir until softened, about five minutes.
2. Add cubed squash and cubed raw pumpkin – (if using canned pumpkin, don't add it yet), celery, carrots, apples. Stir up with the onions for a few minutes. Add white wine or vermouth, then add the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 20 minutes to a half hour, or until the squash can be smashed.
3. Puree with your stick blender, or puree in your blender in batches. Add the canned pumpkin (if using instead of fresh). Grate the nutmeg into the soup, adding salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the maple syrup, and if you want an extra-creamy soup, stir in the cream.
4. Simmer on a very low burner for a little while longer so the flavors blend. Yum!