BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND LEEK STEW
This butternut squash and leek stew delivers soothing comfort in every spoonful. Naturally creamy and full of flavour, it brings together tender squash cubes and mild leeks simmered in a light vegetable broth with a touch of nutmeg and olive oil. The result is a wholesome bowl with subtle spice, sweet undertones, and a silky texture. Ideal for a solo lunch or light dinner, this stew is quick to prepare and gentle on digestion. Butternut squash provides vitamins A and C, while leeks add prebiotic fibre and mild sweetness. A dash of nutmeg introduces a cosy warmth, perfectly suited to autumn or winter meals. The stew is satisfying without being heavy, making it excellent for those seeking healthy, plant-based comfort foods. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread, it offers both simplicity and elegance in one humble, nourishing dish.
RECIPE CATEGORY
Dinner
SERVING SIZE
1 serving
CUISINE
British
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
Stew
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
Fall
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
Vegan
DISH TYPE
Soup / Stew
INGREDIENTS
- ½ cup cubed butternut squash
- ¼ cup sliced leek
- ½ cup vegetable broth
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Dash of nutmeg
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 87.5 kcal
- Fat: 4.8 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7 g
- Carbohydrate: 11.7 g
- Sugar: 2.5 g
- Sodium: 27.7 mg
- Fiber: 1.9 g
- Protein: 1.1 g
- Calcium: 53.5 mg
- Iron: 1 mg
- Potassium: 293.1 mg
PREPARATION
- Prepare The Vegetables: Peel and cube the butternut squash. Slice the leek thinly, using the white and light green parts only.
- Sauté The Aromatics: In a small saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Add The Squash: Stir in the cubed butternut squash and sprinkle in the dash of nutmeg. Sauté for 2 more minutes to deepen the flavour.
- Pour In Liquids: Add the vegetable broth and water to the pan. Stir to combine and ensure nothing sticks to the base.
- Simmer Gently: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the squash is tender and soft.
- Mash Slightly (Optional): For a creamier texture, mash some of the squash against the side of the pan before serving.
- Season To Taste: Add salt if needed, then serve hot with optional cracked pepper or fresh herbs.
PREP TIME
5 minutes
COOKING TIME
20 minutes
TIPS
- Use Pre-Cut Squash: Save time by purchasing pre-cut butternut squash cubes, which are widely available and reduce prep effort.
- Rinse Leeks Well: Slice leeks and place in water to remove grit and sand trapped between the layers. Drain before sautéing.
- Nutmeg Balance: Use just a light sprinkle of nutmeg. A little goes a long way in enhancing the natural sweetness of squash.
- Add Texture: Garnish with roasted seeds or chopped nuts for a bit of crunch and additional nutrients.
- Enhance With Herbs: Finish with fresh thyme or sage to complement the squash’s earthy flavour.
VARIATIONS
- Creamy Coconut Version: Replace water with light coconut milk for a richer, more luxurious texture.
- Add Protein: Stir in a few tablespoons of cooked lentils or chickpeas to increase protein and fibre.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika if you enjoy a bit of heat and smoky undertones.
- More Vegetables: Include carrots or parsnips for more autumnal sweetness and diversity in texture.
- Pureed Option: Blend the entire stew until smooth to create a velvety soup suitable for elegant presentations.
PREPPING AND STORAGE
- Refrigeration: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Freezing: This stew freezes well. Place in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight.
- Batch Prep Tip: Multiply the ingredients to create a larger batch for meal prep. Divide into portions and store accordingly.