Turmeric Butternut Squash Soup

Soup season is here, and this turmeric-infused butternut squash soup is guaranteed to be in your weekly rotation. Packed with vitamins A and C, and curcumin—known for its potential to reduce inflammation and joint pain—this is the perfect arthritis-friendly comfort meal to help boost immunity and nourish the soul.

Turmeric Butternut Squash Soup

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 40 mins

Servings: 6-8 (1½ to 2 cups each)

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 stalk celery, chopped
• 1 cup (150 g) cauliflower, chopped
• 1 medium carrot, chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, cubed
• 4 cups (450 g) frozen butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 3 ¾ cups (900 ml) reduced-salt chicken stock
• 1 ½ tsp (7.5 ml) turmeric
• ½ tsp (2.5 ml) garlic powder
• ½ tsp (2.5 ml) ground coriander
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: 1 heaping tbsp (15 ml) plain Greek yogurt per bowl

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion, celery, cauliflower, carrot and potato. Sauté over medium heat until the vegetables are lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in the chicken stock, frozen butternut squash, turmeric, garlic powder and coriander. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Lower the heat, cover and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 40 minutes.
4. Transfer the soup to a blender and purée until smooth. Pour it back into the pot.
5. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Ladle into bowls and top with a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

Tips:

• For extra flavour, toss in cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger or cumin.
• Add ¼ cup (60 ml) milk or a protein-rich milk alternative to make the soup creamier and richer in calcium and protein.
• Blend in 1 cup (240 g) cottage cheese or tofu, or add 1 cup (150 g) cooked chicken or turkey for additional protein.
• Top with toasted nuts or seeds, such as almonds, pumpkin seeds or pecans to increase healthy fats and to add a satisfying crunch.

Find more arthritis-friendly recipes at arthritis.ca.
Photo and Source: (NC) www.newscanada.com