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Cozy Kabocha Squash Curry Soup: Easy Family Favorite Recipe

kabocha squash curry soup - featured image

This creamy, velvety kabocha squash curry soup is a family favorite that comes together in about 45 minutes. Roasted squash, aromatic spices, and coconut milk create a comforting, flavorful bowl that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium kabocha squash (about 23 pounds), seeded and cut into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder (mild, like Madras-style)
  • 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium)
  • 1 can (13.5 ounces) full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • For garnish: toasted pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of coconut milk, fresh cilantro or parsley, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (all optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Prepare the kabocha squash: cut in half through the stem, scoop out seeds and stringy bits, then cut into wedges about 2 inches thick. Do not peel.
  3. Place wedges on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Toss to coat, arrange cut-side down. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
  4. While squash roasts, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook 5-6 minutes until soft and translucent.
  5. Stir in minced garlic, grated ginger, curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  6. Pour in vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer while squash finishes roasting.
  7. Once squash is tender, let cool slightly. Scoop flesh away from skin (skin can be included) and add to the pot. Stir to combine.
  8. Simmer the soup for 10 minutes to meld flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  9. Remove pot from heat. Use an immersion blender to puree until smooth. If using a countertop blender, let soup cool 5-10 minutes, then blend in batches, filling no more than halfway.
  10. Return pot to low heat. Stir in full-fat coconut milk and maple syrup (if using). Heat gently for 2-3 minutes, do not boil. Adjust seasoning again if needed.
  11. Ladle into bowls and garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds, a swirl of coconut milk, fresh cilantro, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Notes

Don’t skip roasting the squash—it adds depth of flavor. Use full-fat coconut milk for the creamiest texture. Season in layers for best flavor. For a spicier soup, add a chopped Thai chili or serrano pepper with the garlic and ginger. Leftovers keep in the fridge for up to 5 days and freeze well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: kabocha squash soup, curry soup, vegan soup, gluten-free soup, fall soup, family dinner, easy soup recipe