Savor the Spooky Season with Our Monster Mash Soup Recipe!
Introduction
Nothing welcomes the cozy autumn nights like a comforting bowl of soup, and our Monster Mash Soup Recipe is perfect for the spooky season. Packed with rich seasonal vegetables like squash, sweet potatoes, and hearty lentils, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious. Whether you’re preparing for a Halloween dinner or simply craving a warm, easy soup for those crisp fall evenings, this Monster Mash Soup will hit the spot.
This soup is not only great for Halloween—it’s a perfect choice for any chilly night. In this post, I’ll guide you through creating this satisfying soup step-by-step, from prepping to serving. Let’s get into the Monster Mash magic!
Table of Contents
Recipe Card for Monster Mash Soup Recipe
Monster Mash Soup Recipe
Description: A comforting fall soup filled with the flavors of seasonal veggies and a subtle spookiness, perfect for Halloween and beyond.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Yield: 8 cups
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 2 cups butternut squash, cubed
- 1 cup sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup pumpkin purée
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup coconut milk or cream for added creaminess
Directions:
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Add Veggies: Stir in the carrots, celery, squash, and sweet potatoes. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Lentils and Spices: Mix in the red lentils, smoked paprika, cumin, and thyme. Stir well, letting the spices coat the vegetables and lentils.
- Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and pumpkin purée. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 25 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
- Blend & Serve: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. For added creaminess, stir in coconut milk or cream. Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Fall: Full of seasonal ingredients, this soup is ideal for cozying up during the cooler months.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can have a nutritious meal on the table in under an hour.
- Vegan & Gluten-Free: Naturally vegan and gluten-free, this Monster Mash Soup is a crowd-pleaser for various dietary preferences.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with fiber and protein from lentils and veggies, this soup is satisfying and nourishing.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Butternut Squash: Adds natural sweetness and creamy texture; can substitute with pumpkin or acorn squash.
- Sweet Potatoes: Provides a slight sweetness and extra creaminess; regular potatoes can be used if preferred.
- Red Lentils: Cook quickly and add protein; yellow lentils or split peas are suitable substitutes.
- Pumpkin Purée: Brings a velvety texture and earthy flavor; substitute with more butternut squash purée if needed.
- Coconut Milk/Cream (optional): Adds richness; substitute with heavy cream or skip for a lighter version.
How to Make Monster Mash Soup (Step-by-Step)
Follow these steps for a foolproof and delicious Monster Mash Soup. Perfect for beginners and pros alike!
Step 1: Sauté the Base Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant. This creates a rich flavor foundation for the soup.
Step 2: Add the Hearty Veggies
Next, toss in the carrots, celery, cubed butternut squash, and sweet potatoes. Stir well and cook for a few minutes, allowing the vegetables to start softening.
Step 3: Add Lentils and Spices
Stir in the red lentils, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dried thyme. This step enhances the flavor, making every bite of soup taste warm and earthy.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Simmer
Pour the vegetable broth and pumpkin purée into the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then lower to a simmer. Cover and let cook for about 25 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Blend and Serve
Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth. For added creaminess, stir in coconut milk or cream. Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Expert Tips for Success
- Blending: Use an immersion blender for an easy, mess-free way to blend. If using a regular blender, work in batches and be cautious with hot liquids.
- Season Gradually: Taste as you go, especially with salt. Some broths are saltier than others, so adjust to your taste.
- Garnish with Style: Top with a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds, a swirl of coconut milk, or fresh herbs like parsley for extra appeal.
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Monster Mash Soup: Add a dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes for a warming kick.
- Protein-Packed: Stir in cooked chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.
- Creamier Texture: If you prefer a super creamy soup, add a splash of heavy cream or more coconut milk.
- Add Green Veggies: Spinach or kale can be added at the end of cooking for a boost of greens.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This Monster Mash Soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prepping.
- Refrigerator: Keep it fresh by storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container, and keep frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm it slowly on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring from time to time. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete fall meal, pair your Monster Mash Soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad. This soup also pairs well with sandwiches, especially a classic grilled cheese or veggie panini.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Absolutely! The flavors deepen as it sits, making it perfect for next-day meals.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, this Monster Mash Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free, so it’s safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or kale to customize it to your taste.
Q: How can I make the soup spicier?
A: To spice it up, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Adjust to your spice preference!
Q: Can I skip the coconut milk?
A: Yes, coconut milk is optional. You can omit it or replace it with any plant-based milk or heavy cream for a richer flavor.
You’ll Also Love:
If you enjoy hearty, veggie-packed soups like this Monster Mash Soup Recipe, here are a few more soul-warming recipes to try:
- Butternut Squash Soup Recipe: A creamy, slightly sweet soup with a velvety texture.
- Pumpkin Lentil Soup: Packed with protein and flavor, perfect for cold days.
- Easy Vegetable Soup: A classic, comforting soup filled with your favorite veggies.
- Spicy Sweet Potato Soup: For a bit of heat, try this zesty and wholesome sweet potato soup.
Conclusion
There you have it—the ultimate Monster Mash Soup Recipe for the fall season. Rich, creamy, and packed with seasonal ingredients, it’s a soup everyone will love. Whether you’re cozying up at home or celebrating Halloween, this soup will add warmth and flavor to your autumn nights. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting taste of fall!
Don’t forget to share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram—we’d love to see your unique take on this delicious fall soup! Happy cooking!