For more flavor, mix the cubed butternut squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring each piece is coated. This step is crucial for achieving that rich, roasted flavor. Spread the squash on a baking sheet and roast in a preheated oven at 400 degrees F for 30 minutes, until it’s tender and caramelized.
While the squash is roasting, select the SAUTE function on your Instant Pot and set it to HIGH. Wait for the display to read HOT, which may take a couple of minutes. Once it’s ready, add the olive oil and let it shimmer, indicating it's hot enough for cooking.
Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 2 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This will form the base flavor of your soup.
Next, add the garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 30 seconds. Stir frequently to prevent burning, and enjoy the wafting aromas!
Once the onions, garlic, and ginger are fragrant, add the roasted butternut squash (or raw if you prefer) along with the remaining ingredients: vegetable broth, heavy cream, peanut butter (if using), sea salt, brown sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, and a pinch of black pepper. Stir everything to combine.
Close and lock the lid of the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is pointed to Sealed. Manually set the timer for 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully under pressure.
Once the cooking time is complete, do a natural pressure release for 15 minutes. This means you simply let the pot sit undisturbed for that time before moving the valve to Venting to release any remaining steam.
Once the pressure has released, carefully open the lid and check the consistency of the soup. If it’s too thick for your liking, feel free to add more warm cream or broth to thin it out.
For a smooth soup, use a masher or an immersion blender to blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. You may keep it slightly chunky for added texture if that’s your preference.
Finally, serve your Instant Pot Roasted Butternut Squash Soup garnished with a drizzle of cream, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, and a handful of pepita seeds for crunch. This finishing touch elevates the dish, making it visually appealing and extra delicious!
