Butternut shrimp soup with sherry is a creamy, comforting dish that combines the sweetness of butternut squash with the freshness of shrimp. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious and rich flavor profile using fresh ingredients. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a hearty appetizer at your next gathering.
#### Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz shrimp, deveined and tails removed
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp sherry (optional for enhancing flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Butter
#### Instructions
**Step 1: Prepare the Butternut Squash**
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).
2. Place the cubed butternut squash on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes or until tender.
**Step 2: Cook the Shrimp**
1. In a large pan, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink.
3. Remove from the pan and set aside.
**Step 3: Sautee Vegetables**
1. In the same pan used to cook the shrimp, add one tablespoon of olive oil if needed.
2. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 5 minutes or until softened and fragrant.
**Step 4: Simmer the Soup Base**
1. Add the roasted butternut squash and the shrimp to the pan with vegetables.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring everything is covered.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes or until the butternut squash is very tender.
**Step 5: Blend and Adjust**
1. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend until smooth.
2. Return the blended soup back to the pan, add heavy cream, and stir well.
3. Allow it to simmer for another 5-7 minutes to heat through but avoid boiling.
**Step 6: Incorporate Sherry (Optional)**
1. If using sherry, taste the soup and if needed, add a tablespoon of sherry to enhance the flavors.
2. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference.
**Step 7: Serve**
1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish each bowl with fresh chopped parsley.
3. Serve hot with crusty bread or as an appetizer alongside crudités.
#### Tips
- For a richer flavor, use high-quality sherry and consider adding a splash of it when blending to incorporate its complexity.
- Ensure your butternut squash is roasted properly for maximum sweetness in the soup.
- Adjust the heat levels based on personal taste. Some may prefer their shrimp well-done while others like them more tender.
#### Conclusion
This butternut shrimp soup with sherry recipe not only provides a delightful culinary experience but also optimizes SEO through targeted keywords and descriptive steps, enhancing discoverability for home cooks looking to create this comforting dish. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of this seasonal soup!