Winter Squash Bisque

Directions

1. 1
   Halve squash and remove seeds.
2. 2
   Place squash halves, cut sides down, on a baking dish.
3. 3
   Bake in a 350 degree F oven for 30 minutes. Turn cut sides up. Bake, covered, 20 to 25 minutes or until squash is tender.
4. 4
   Scoop squash pulp out of the peel using a spoon; discard peel.
5. 5
   Place pulp in batches in a blender container or food processor bowl.
6. 6
   Cover and blend or process until squash is smooth, adding some of the chicken broth if the mixture is too thick.
7. 7
   Stir together pureed squash and remaining chicken broth in a large saucepan.
8. 8
   Stir in ginger, salt, pepper, and cinnamon. Bring mixture to boiling.
9. 9
   Reduce heat and stir in half-and-half or light cream.
10. 10
    Heat through, but do not boil.
11. 11
    If desired, garnish each serving with sour cream and thyme sprigs.