Ingredients
7 slices pumpernickel bread4 tablespoons butter, divided1 tablespoon olive oilDash salt1/2 cup chopped onion1/4 cup chopped celery2 tablespoons all-purpose flour1 teaspoon chicken bouillon granules1/4 teaspoon dill weed1/4 teaspoon curry powderDash cayenne pepper2 cups chicken broth1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk3 cups mashed cooked acorn squashAdditional cayenne pepper, optional
Preparation
Cut pumpernickel bread with bat- or cat-shaped 3-1/2-in. cookie cutters; discard scraps. Melt 2 tablespoons butter. In a small bowl, combine the butter, oil and salt; brush over both sides of cutouts. Place on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 300° for 10-15 minutes or until crisp and toasted. Remove to a wire rack to cool.
In a large saucepan, saute onion and celery in remaining butter until tender. Stir in the flour, bouillon, dill, curry and cayenne until blended. Gradually add broth and milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in squash; heat through. Cool slightly.
In a blender, process soup in batches until smooth. Return to the pan; heat through. Garnish servings with bat or cat cutouts; sprinkle with additional cayenne if desired.
