Butternut Squash Soup

Description

1. Select Sauté setting on a 6-quart programmable multicooker (such as an Instant Pot). (Times, instructions and settings may vary according to cooker brand or model.) Select High temperature setting and allow to preheat. Add oil to the cooker; heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Add pears, onion, cilantro, ginger, salt and coriander; cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion just softens, about 5 minutes.

2. Add squash, coconut milk and lime zest. Cover the cooker and lock the lid in place. Turn the steam release handle to Sealing position. Select Manual/Pressure Cook setting on High pressure for 20 minutes. (It will take 5 to 15 minutes for the cooker to come up to pressure before cooking begins.)

3. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes. Carefully turn the steam release handle to Venting position, and let the steam fully escape (the float valve will drop; this will take 8 to 12 minutes). Turn off the cooker. Remove the cooker insert and let stand for 10 minutes. Remove and discard lime zest. Stir in lime juice.

4. Working in 2 batches, carefully transfer the squash mixture to a blender. Secure the lid on the blender and remove the center piece to allow steam to escape. Place a clean towel over the opening. Process until smooth, about 25 seconds per batch. (Use caution when pureeing hot liquids.) Transfer to a large serving bowl; let cool for a minute or two. Swirl in yogurt. Ladle the soup evenly into 6 shallow bowls; garnish with cilantro and sprinkle with peanuts, if desired.