Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and dice the butternut squash, sweet potato, and regular potatoes into large, uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Chop the onions and slice the carrots. Mince the garlic cloves.
- Add all the prepared vegetables and minced garlic to the slow cooker pot.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, using 4 1/4 cups for a thicker soup or up to 8 1/2 cups for a thinner consistency.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until all vegetables are very tender.
- Carefully remove the lid. Using an immersion blender directly in the pot, or by carefully transferring batches to a stand blender, blend the soup until completely smooth.
- If the soup is too thick, add a little more hot stock or water until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately.
Notes
For a richer flavor profile, consider roasting the butternut squash, sweet potato, and carrots with a drizzle of olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This caramelizes their natural sugars, adding depth. Alternatively, sauté the chopped onions and garlic in a pan before combining with other ingredients in the slow cooker to build a more robust base. Ensure all vegetables are fork-tender before blending for a silky-smooth consistency. Season incrementally, tasting as you go, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of apple cider vinegar to brighten the soup. A pinch of nutmeg or a hint of smoked paprika can elevate the warmth. Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or a swirl of coconut cream for presentation.