Makes 10 servings (1 cup each)

3 lbs butternut squash, peeled and cut into 1 inch chunks

2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced (any sweet apple will do. Avoid tart apples, like Granny Smith)

1 medium onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

4 cups vegetable broth

1/4 tsp fresh ginger, peeled and minced (or grated)

1 cup water

salt and pepper to taste

1/2 tsp cinnamon

pinch of nutmeg

more apple, finely diced (for topping, optional)

a swirl or two of pure maple syrup (for topping, optional)

Add all of your ingredients into your slow cooker, give it a big stir, and cook on low for 8-10 hours (or on high for 4-5 hours). Use your immersion blender or food processor to puree until smooth. Serve it nice and hot, topped with a small bit of diced apple and maple syrup if you’d like!