As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, I find solace in a warm bowl of Golden Butternut Dashi Soup. This delightful dish captures the essence of cozy fall evenings, effortlessly blending creamy butternut squash with the umami richness of dashi. A generous touch of crisp tempura asparagus adds an unexpected crunch, making it as visually stunning as it is delicious. Not only is this vegetarian recipe quick to prepare, but it’s also a true crowd-pleaser that showcases the magic of Japanese cuisine in a heartfelt fusion. So, are you ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of comfort and flavor? Let’s dive in!
Why is this soup a fall favorite?
Comforting Warmth: This Golden Butternut Dashi Soup wraps you in a cozy embrace, perfect for cool autumn evenings.
Umami Bliss: Infused with rich dashi, it delivers a delightful burst of savory flavors that will awaken your taste buds.
Versatile Veggies: Feel free to choose your favorite seasonal vegetables for the tempura, making every bowl unique and fun!
Quick Preparation: Ready in no time, this recipe fits seamlessly into your busy week while still impressing your guests.
Visual Delight: Topped with stunning tempura asparagus and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, it’s a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate.
Transform your meal time with this recipe! Pair it with Dill Pickle Soup or serve it alongside Busy Day Soup for a comforting dinner experience.
Golden Butternut Dashi Soup Ingredients
• Discover everything you need for this cozy masterpiece!
For the Soup
• Large butternut squash – Provides the creamy base for the soup; feel free to substitute with any winter squash for a similar texture.
• Soy milk – Adds creaminess with a hint of sweetness; switch to almond or oat milk for a nut-free version.
• Pack of dashi – Essential for that umami flavor in the soup; you can use homemade dashi or vegetable broth as alternatives.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste; adjust these seasonings to suit your preferences.
For the Tempura
• Vegetable oil – Used for sautéing and deep-frying; opt for any neutral oil if preferred.
• Asparagus stalks – The crunchy component for tempura; other veggies like zucchini or sweet potatoes can work wonders too.
• Nori sheets – Adds a salty, sea-like flavor to the tempura; you can omit if they’re not on hand.
• Tempura batter – Perfect for coating the vegetables; you can use store-bought or whip up a homemade batter.
• Chili oil – Adds a spicy kick; adjust the amount to your liking, or substitute with sriracha for an alternative heat source.
For Garnishing
• Sesame seeds (chopped) – Enhances visual appeal and flavor; these are optional but add a delightful crunch!
• Chives (chopped) – Adds freshness and a mild onion flavor; substitute with green onions if you prefer.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Golden Butternut Dashi Soup
Step 1: Prep the Butternut Squash
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Carefully peel the large butternut squash, then cut it in half and scoop out the seeds. Chop the squash into even cubes and spread them on a baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt; roast for about 25–30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized, giving them a golden hue.
Step 2: Make the Soup Base
Once the roasted butternut squash is cool enough to handle, add it to a blender with the pack of dashi and soy milk. Blend until you reach a velvety smooth consistency, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Pour the mixture into a pot over medium heat; simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, and season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor of your Golden Butternut Dashi Soup.
Step 3: Prepare the Tempura
In a deep skillet or pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). While the oil is heating, dip the asparagus stalks into the tempura batter, ensuring they are well-coated. When the oil is hot, carefully fry the battered vegetables in batches for about 3–4 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Serve the Soup
Ladle the warm Golden Butternut Dashi Soup into bowls, filling them generously. Top each bowl with the crispy tempura vegetables for a striking contrast. For an added touch of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped chives on top. Finally, drizzle a bit of chili oil over the soup to elevate the experience with a spicy kick.
What to Serve with Golden Butternut Dashi Soup
Indulge in a delightful dining experience by complementing your warm bowl of soup with these flavorsome pairings.
- Steamed Rice: A classic companion that soaks up the rich soup, enhancing each bite with comforting textures.
- Crispy Onigiri: These savory rice balls add a delightful crunch and are perfect for dipping into the umami-packed dashi.
- Pickled Vegetables: A tangy side like pickled radishes or cucumbers brightens the meal and balances the creamy richness beautifully.
- Sesame Green Beans: Tender green beans tossed in sesame oil bring an extra layer of flavor, lustrously enhancing your dining experience.
- Miso Salad Dressing: Drizzle this creamy, umami-packed dressing over mixed greens for a refreshing contrast to the warm, rich soup.
- Chrysanthemum Tea: This floral beverage perfectly complements the soup’s flavors and adds a soothing element to your meal.
- Pumpkin Spice Brownies: For a sweet finish, these fudgy delights bring fall flavors to your table, making every bite memorable.
- Ginger Ale Spritzers: The bubbly ginger notes of this refreshing drink offer a zesty counterpart, awakening the palate between spoonfuls.
Enjoy combining these elements to create a cozy feast that warms the heart!
Helpful Tricks for Golden Butternut Dashi Soup
Oil Temperature: Ensure your oil is hot enough for frying tempura; test with a small drop of batter to achieve the perfect crispness.
Blend Smoothly: For a velvety texture in your Golden Butternut Dashi Soup, blend in smaller batches if using a standard blender, preventing overflow.
Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually; remember that flavors will develop as the soup simmers, so taste and modify as needed.
Vegetable Variety: Feel free to experiment with different seasonal vegetables for your tempura—broccoli, zucchini, and sweet potatoes add delightful flavors!
Serve Hot: This soup is best enjoyed warm, so make sure to serve it right after preparation for that comforting effect.
Golden Butternut Dashi Soup Variations
Feel free to let your creativity flow with these delightful twists on your soup!
- Seasonal Veggies: Use a mix of seasonal vegetables for tempura such as broccoli, sweet potatoes, or even carrots. Each veggie will bring a distinct flavor that enriches the overall dish.
- Coconut Milk: Swap soy milk with creamy coconut milk for a tropical flavor update that pairs beautifully with the squash.
- Miso Infusion: Replace dashi with miso paste for a different umami kick. This creates a heartier base while keeping the soup rich and satisfying.
- Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of heat, elevate the chili oil with fresh diced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha. It will give your soup a fun, fiery edge!
- Herb Garnish: Instead of chives, use finely chopped cilantro or basil for a fresh take. Their aromatic notes can enhance the overall flavor profile beautifully.
- Nutty Crunch: Add toasted hazelnuts or almonds on top for an extra layer of texture and a nutty flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy soup.
- Greens Galore: Stir in some fresh spinach or kale at the end of simmering for added nutrition and a lovely pop of color. They soften perfectly and boost the health factor.
- Fusion Fun: Incorporate a splash of curry paste into the base for a delightful fusion twist that pairs well with the umami elements, making it an adventurous choice.
Don’t forget to consider serving this vibrant soup alongside a comforting bowl of Dill Pickle Soup or the ever-hearty Italian Penicillin Soup for a decadent meal experience. The combinations are endless, so let your chefs’ spirit guide you!
Make Ahead Options
These Golden Butternut Dashi Soup preparations are a lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can make the soup base up to 24 hours in advance by blending the roasted squash with soy milk and dashi, then storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, pre-cut and wash your vegetables for tempura, keeping them fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. On the day of serving, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop until warm, and fry the tempura just before you’re ready to serve for that crispy texture. This approach allows you to enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
How to Store and Freeze Golden Butternut Dashi Soup
Fridge: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of soy milk to restore creaminess.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and stir well to recombine the ingredients.
Tempura Storage: Tempura should be consumed fresh for the best texture but can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day. Re-crisp in a hot oven for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions: Reheat the soup gently to maintain its silky consistency, and consider serving with fresh tempura for a delightful contrast in textures!
Golden Butternut Dashi Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right butternut squash?
Absolutely! Look for a butternut squash that feels heavy for its size and has a smooth, firm skin. Avoid any with dark spots all over or soft spots, as they indicate overripeness. The best squashes will have a deep golden-orange color, which suggests sweetness and flavor.
What’s the best way to store leftover soup?
Leftover Golden Butternut Dashi Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. When reheating, do so gently over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of soy milk if needed to restore its creamy texture.
Can I freeze Golden Butternut Dashi Soup?
Absolutely! You can freeze the soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just let it cool before storing. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight, and then reheat gently on the stove. Stir well to combine, as some separation may occur during freezing.
What can I do if my tempura turns out soggy?
If your tempura isn’t crisp, it’s often due to oil that isn’t hot enough. Make sure your oil reaches about 350°F (175°C) for optimum frying. Try a small drop of batter; if it doesn’t sizzle immediately, wait a bit longer before frying. Also, frying in smaller batches helps maintain a higher oil temperature.
Can I adjust the spice level in the soup?
Very much so! If you prefer less heat, start by adding just a small drizzle of chili oil after serving. Taste first, as you can always add more if you want it spicier. You might also consider using sriracha in place of chili oil for a different flavor profile.
Is this soup suitable for a vegetarian or vegan diet?
Definitely! This Golden Butternut Dashi Soup is not only vegetarian but can easily be made vegan by ensuring the soy milk is free from any animal products. For those with nut allergies, simply swap the soy milk for oat milk, and you’re all set!
Golden Butternut Dashi Soup: A Cozy Fall Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Peel and cut the butternut squash, scoop out the seeds, chop into cubes, and roast for 25–30 minutes.
- Blend the roasted squash with dashi and soy milk until smooth. Pour into a pot and simmer for 5–7 minutes, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a skillet. Dip asparagus in tempura batter and fry for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with tempura, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chives, and drizzle with chili oil.
