**Chef Steven Leake Whips Up Cozy Butternut Squash & Pumpkin Soup!**
MEMPHIS, TN — As the leaves turn and the air cools, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to embrace the season. Chef Steven Leake of Southwest Tennessee Community College brought an autumnal delight to the Live at 9 audience with his creamy butternut squash and pumpkin soup, perfect for chilly fall nights.
“I love creating dishes that reflect the changing seasons,” Chef Leake shared during his live cooking demonstration. With a passion for fresh, local ingredients, he emphasized the importance of using ripe pumpkins and freshly harvested squash for the ultimate flavor profile. The engaging chef walked viewers through each step of the recipe, ensuring even novice cooks could replicate the dish at home.
The soup’s base consists of roasted butternut squash, blended to a velvety consistency, mixed with rich pumpkin puree. A touch of sautéed onions and garlic adds depth, while a sprinkle of nutmeg, cinnamon, and a drizzle of cream brings a hint of warmth necessary for the colder months. Chef Leake suggested serving the soup with crusty bread for a complete fall experience.
“The beauty of this soup is in its simplicity,” Leake noted, encouraging home chefs to personalize their creations with herbs like thyme or rosemary. As the segments ended, viewers couldn’t resist the temptation to replicate the cozy dish in their kitchens.
As autumn settles in, Chef Steven Leake’s creamy butternut squash and pumpkin soup stands out as the quintessential comfort food. With just a few ingredients and a dash of creativity, anyone can bring a taste of fall into their home. So, grab your pumpkins and squash — it’s time to get cooking!
