Kabocha Squash and Fennel Soup with Crème Fraîche and Candied Pumpkin Seeds

Name: Kabocha Squash and Fennel Soup with Crème Fraîche and Candied Pumpkin Seeds
Ingredients: 2 pounds Kabocha squash; 2 medium bulbs fennel; 4 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 2 teapoons fennel seeds; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cups sliced onions; 1 tablespoon thyme leaves; 2 chiles de árbol; 1 bay leaf; 3/4 cup sherry; 10 cups chicken or vegetable stock or water; 1/4 cup crème fraîche; Candied pumpkin seeds (recipe follows); Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds; 2 teaspoons unsalted butter; 1/2 cup raw pumpkin seeds; 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; Generous pinch each of ground cinnamon, paprika, and cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon honey; Kosher salt

January 24, 2012

Of all winter squash, Kabocha holds a special place in my heart. Rich and sweet, its dense orange flesh is one of my favorite winter flavors. For this soup, instead of sautéing the squash and fennel, I roast them in the oven to bring out their natural sweetness. If you can’t find Kabocha, use another winter squash, such as butternut or Hubbard. The pumpkin seeds, or pepitas, are coated in sugar, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, and cayenne; I think of them as adult Halloween candy. Sprinkled over the top, they give this delicious winter soup a feisty coronation.

Recipe notes

Rosemary and Dried Cherry Pork Chops

Rehydrating dried cherries in hot water turns them plump and juicy—exactly what you want scattered throughout a rosemary-scented pan sauce for pork chops.

Brussels Sprout Pasta

This brussels sprout pasta recipe taps nutty brown butter, crunchy pecans, and hot Italian sausage to create an easy dinner bursting with fall flavors.

Béchamel Sauce

This classic 15-minute sauce is your secret weapon for homemade mac and cheese, chowder, lasagna, and more.

Butternut Squash–Kale Salad With Roasted Garlic Vinaigrette

Round out these autumn greens with tart pomegranate seeds, crunchy pepitas, and a shower of Parmesan.

Our Favorite French Onion Soup

Caramelized onions, melty Gruyère, and a deeply savory broth deliver the kind of comfort that doesn’t need improving.

Frijoles Peruanos (Peruvian Refried Beans)

Mayocobas, or canary beans, are the quick-cooking pantry ingredient you should know about.

White Bean Turkey Chili

A dash of cocoa powder adds depth and richness to the broth of this easy turkey chili.

French Silk Pie

A no-bake Oreo crust, a rich chocolate filling, and a tower of whipped cream come together in this shut-the-room-up dessert.