Winter Squash Soup

Top this silky, creamy soup with candied squash seeds.

Ingredients:
2 winter squash, such as Delicata, halved lengthwise and seeded
1 yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups chicken stock
¾ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons butter
Sea salt and fresh ground pepper

Method:
1. Preheat oven to 325°. Place the squash, cut sides down, in a baking dish. Add a few tablespoons of water to the baking dish, cover with foil and bake 35-40 minutes or until tender. Cool.

2. In a large stock pot, melt butter. Add the onion and garlic cook over low heat, stirring occasionally until onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.

3. Scrape out the squash flesh from each half and add to the pot with the onions. Add the stock and cream. Cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, about 25 minutes.

4. Purée the soup in a blender or food processor, or in the pot using an immersion blender. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve.