By: Tori Buell

Warm Up Your Fall with the Best of Fredericksburg’s Local Ingredients!

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp in Fredericksburg, there’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of soup to warm the soul. At Fredericksburg Food Co-op, we’re all about embracing local, seasonal ingredients, and fall is the perfect time to showcase the bounty of our region. This cozy Autumn Harvest Soup is not only bursting with flavor but also features fresh produce you can find right here at our co-op. Think hearty root vegetables, rich butternut squash, and warming spices that capture the essence of the season.

Why We Love It: This soup is as vibrant as the fall foliage, packed with nourishing ingredients that will leave you feeling full and satisfied. It’s the perfect dish for those cool fall evenings when you want something wholesome and easy to make. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any seasonal veggies you may have on hand!

Let’s dive into the recipe so you can enjoy this flavorful, healthy fall favorite!

Autumn Harvest Soup Recipe

(Serves 6-8)

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced (available at the co-op)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 small butternut squash, peeled and cubed
• 2 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 apple (preferably local), peeled and chopped
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground nutmeg
• 6 cups vegetable broth (look for local options at the co-op)
• 1 can coconut milk (optional for added creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme or sage for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the Fall Veggies:
   Stir in the butternut squash, potatoes, and apple. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
3. Season to Perfection:
   Sprinkle in the cinnamon, smoked paprika, and nutmeg. These spices add a wonderful warmth and depth to the soup, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the squash and apple.
4. Simmer:
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Blend for Creaminess:
   If you prefer a creamy soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. If you like a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup or leave it as is. Stir in the coconut milk at this point if using.
6. Final Touches:
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or sage for that extra fall flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
   Pair this soup with a slice of crusty, locally baked bread from the co-op for a complete meal!

Why Shop Local?

At Fredericksburg Food Co-op, we’re committed to sourcing fresh, local produce and supporting our community’s farmers. By shopping locally, you’re not only enjoying the freshest, tastiest ingredients, but you’re also contributing to a more sustainable and resilient food system. Many of the vegetables featured in this soup, such as butternut squash, apples, and potatoes, are harvested right here in Virginia during the fall months, so keep an eye out for these seasonal offerings when you visit the co-op!

Tips for Variations:

• Add protein: For a heartier soup, add cooked lentils or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
• Spice it up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
• Go green: Stir in some fresh kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.

We hope this Autumn Harvest Soup brings warmth and joy to your fall table. Remember, the best soups are made with love and the freshest, local ingredients—and you can find them all at Fredericksburg Food Co-op. Happy cooking, and we can’t wait to see you at the co-op this fall!

Do you have a favorite fall recipe you’d like to share with our community? Let us know the next time you stop by!

Visit Fredericksburg Food Co-op for all your fall produce needs, from crisp apples to hearty squash. Let’s celebrate the season of abundance together!