Curried Butternut Squash and Pear Soup

Ingredients and Weight:

• Butternut Squash - 500 grams (1 pound)
• Pears - 3, ripe and firm
• Curry Powder - 2 tablespoons
• Chicken Stock - 500 ml (2 cups)
• Heavy Cream - 250 ml (1 cup)
• Salt and Pepper - to taste
• Fresh Thyme - a sprig
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons for cooking

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 40 minutes
• Total: 60 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Peel and cube the butternut squash into small pieces.
2. Peel, core, and cut the pears into eighths.
3. In a large pot, heat the olive oil and add the curry powder, cooking for a minute to release the aroma.
4. Add the cubed butternut squash and pears to the pot.
5. Pour in the chicken stock and fresh thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before blending with an immersion blender or in a blender.
7. Return the soup to the pot, add the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bring back to a gentle boil and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information: (Per serving, assuming 8 total servings)

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g

Dish Characteristics:

• The soup is creamy and rich in flavor, with a hint of spice from the curry powder.
• The combination of butternut squash and pears creates a unique sweet-savory taste experience.
• The soup is hearty and warming, making it a perfect comfort food for colder weather.

User Comments:

1. "The flavor combination was unexpected but absolutely delightful!" - John Doe
2. "The soup was creamy and full of flavor. I will definitely make this again." - Jane Smith
3. "I added a few spoons of Greek yogurt on top for a richer texture. It was excellent!" - Michael Johnson

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to choose ripe but firm pears for best flavor and texture in the soup.
• Use low-fat milk or vegan-friendly options for the heavy cream if desired for a lighter or alternative version.
• Adjust the curry powder according to personal preference for spicier or milder soup.