Butternut Squash Instant Pot (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 medium carrot, diced after peeling.
02 - 4 garlic cloves, chopped finely.
03 - 1 small onion, cut into small pieces.
04 - 4 cups of vegetable broth.
05 - 1 Granny Smith apple, diced and cored.
06 - 2 tablespoons of olive oil (or a similar oil).
07 - 1 large butternut squash (weighing about 2–3 lbs), peeled, deseeded, and cubed.
08 - 2 sprigs of fresh sage, finely cut (or 1 teaspoon dried sage).
09 - 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder.
10 - 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg powder.
11 - A pinch of cayenne pepper (if you’d like some heat).
12 - Salt and black pepper for flavor.
13 - 1 can (14 oz) of full-fat coconut milk.
14 - Optional add-ons: fresh herb bits, roasted pumpkin seeds, crumbled bacon, etc.

# Instructions:

01 - Cut the squash into cubes after peeling and removing the seeds. Dice the apple, carrot, and onion. Finely chop the garlic. Lastly, chop up the fresh sage.
02 - Toss the vegetable broth, butternut squash, carrot, garlic, apple, onion, cinnamon, sage, nutmeg, cayenne (if using), salt, and pepper into the Instant Pot. Combine it all well.
03 - Securely close the lid and make sure the vent is set to 'Sealing'. Press 'Manual' or 'Pressure Cook', and then choose 'High Pressure'. Use the +/- buttons to set the timer for 8 minutes.
04 - Cook it on 'High Pressure' for 8 minutes. When it finishes, carefully change the vent to 'Venting' for quick release. Wait until all the pressure has been released and the pin drops. Open the lid.
05 - Take out the sprigs of sage and toss them. Use a stick blender to puree the soup until it’s creamy. If you’re using a regular blender, transfer it in batches, but be cautious with the hot liquid.
06 - Pour in the coconut milk and stir until everything’s blended.
07 - Give it a taste and add more cayenne, pepper, or salt if you want extra flavor.
08 - Serve the soup warm. Consider topping it with fresh herbs, pumpkin seeds, or crumbled bacon if you’d like.

# Notes:

01 - This is naturally vegan and gluten-free.
02 - Spice levels can be changed however you prefer.
03 - Add an extra pinch of cayenne for more heat.
04 - For creamier soup, add extra coconut milk or another non-dairy creamer.