In order to meet the 2 birds with one stone principle–in this case write up a new post quickly and make my daughter something for dinner as I’m heading off to yet another reading tonight–I thought I’d whip up her favorite soup and leave it for her in the fridge. So Kabocha squash soup it is.

Why Kabocha?  Because this hard, squat shaped dark green squash with pale stripes throughout, also known as a Japanese Pumpkin or Kuri, makes the best soup, one that is deep burnt orange in color and rich in flavor–almost chestnut like.  Butternut and acorn are my other favorites and they will do just fine in this recipe, but we both agree that made with the Kabocha, it’s even better.

I like to roast my squash ahead of time and sometimes I even throw a carrot into the mix too–giving it an added boost of texture and sweetness, though certainly not necessary. My recipe is really simple and goes like this: Have on hand a good sized squash, about a 3 pounder will make enough to serve 4-6 people. Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds and discard, then cut the squash into thick slices. Rub the flesh with olive oil and roast in a 400 degree oven for about 45 minutes, or until tender. Cool, then scoop out the flesh using a spoon.

Heat a tablespoon or so of olive oil over medium heat in a large heavy-bottomed pot; add 1 chopped onion, 1 clove sliced garlic and a healthy pinch of ground ginger (or preferably use grated fresh ginger). Cook until the onions are soft, about 2 minutes. Add 2 1/2-3 cups good quality chicken stock (or store-bought Organic broth or vege stock), squash flesh (and carrot, if you roasted this too), and cook for about 5 minutes until the flavors meld.

Carefully puree the soup in a blender until smooth, adding more stock or water to achieve desired consistency. Reheat and season with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and top with toasted pumpkin seeds, and if you are like me, drizzle with Siracha hot sauce (the one with the Rooster on it) for that final kick.

And on that note, it’s time for me to get ready for my next event. Tonight I’m heading to Capitola Book Cafe for a talk and reading. Tomorrow night, I’m at Booksmith in the Haight. And on Saturday I’m on West Coast Live at the Freight and Salvage. More event listings and details here. If I haven’t caught your attention yet, do come by Caffe Trieste on Piedmont Ave. Saturday, November 21st from 7-10 pm to revel in the spirit of my Nepenthe. Artists, writers, painters, songstresses, poets, builders, cooks, wranglers, and more are all invited. No-host wine and coffee bar. Belly dancing will begin at 8.