Instructions

  1. Cook bacon slices in large pot until crisp.
  2. Remove bacon and drain.
  3. Reserve 2 tbsp drippings in pan.
  4. Crumble bacon and set aside.
  5. Saute onion and carrots in bacon drippings over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes (until onion is tender).
  6. Add celery and apple to pan and saute 5 minutes.
  7. And garlic and saute 1 minute.
  8. Add squash and chicken broth.
  9. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until carrots are tender.
  10. Process mixture, in batches, in a blender or food processor until smooth.
  11. (Hot mixtures will erupt out of blender if too full- believe me I know).
  12. Return mixture to pot.
  13. Stir in lime juice and next 7 ingredients.
  14. Simmer for 7-10 minutes or until thickened.
  15. Top soup with crumbled bacon and garnish with sour cream and red pepper.