Daily menu, September 4: a cozy butternut squash soup, savory dumplings, and a creamy flan
Friday 4 September 2026 15:00 - Juliette Hess
Butternut squash and red lentil soup
This butternut squash and red lentil soup is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich blend of spices like curry, cumin, and turmeric, it offers a warm and inviting flavor profile. The creamy texture from the coconut milk combined with the earthy taste of red lentils makes this soup not only delicious but also nutritious. Perfect for a chilly evening, this dish highlights seasonal ingredients and is easy to prepare. Serve it hot, and enjoy the cozy vibes!
Kuotie: chinese-indonesian pan-fried dumplings
Next up, we have Kuotie, delightful Chinese-Indonesian pan-fried dumplings that are sure to be a hit. These dumplings feature a savory filling of ground pork, shrimp, and Napa cabbage, all wrapped in a tender dough made from flour and boiling water. The combination of flavors, enhanced by garlic and ginger, creates a mouthwatering experience. Pan-frying gives them a crispy bottom while keeping the filling juicy. Pair them with a spicy chili-garlic sauce for an extra kick!
Ultra-creamy pastry flan - flan pâtissier
To finish off our menu, indulge in an ultra-creamy pastry flan, also known as flan pâtissier. This classic French dessert is made with a rich mixture of eggs, sugar, and milk, all encased in a flaky pastry. The addition of cream ensures a smooth and luscious texture that melts in your mouth. With its sweet vanilla flavor and creamy consistency, this flan is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Serve it chilled for the best experience, and enjoy a taste of nostalgia!
Frequently asked questions
What makes the butternut squash soup so comforting?
The combination of spices and creamy coconut milk creates a warm and soothing flavor profile that is perfect for chilly days.
Can I use other types of meat in the Kuotie dumplings?
Yes, you can substitute ground pork with chicken or beef, depending on your preference.
How do I ensure my pastry flan is creamy?
Using whole milk and cream, along with proper cooking times, helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dumplings in advance and freeze them. Just cook them from frozen when ready to serve.
What is the best way to store the flan?
Store the flan in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, well covered to prevent it from drying out.
The combination of spices and creamy coconut milk creates a warm and soothing flavor profile that is perfect for chilly days.
Can I use other types of meat in the Kuotie dumplings?
Yes, you can substitute ground pork with chicken or beef, depending on your preference.
How do I ensure my pastry flan is creamy?
Using whole milk and cream, along with proper cooking times, helps achieve a smooth and creamy texture.
Can I make the dumplings ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dumplings in advance and freeze them. Just cook them from frozen when ready to serve.
What is the best way to store the flan?
Store the flan in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, well covered to prevent it from drying out.
Shopping list for today's menu
Butternut squash and red lentil soup
- 10.5 oz red lentils
- 23 oz butternut (1/2 butternut)
- 2.5 cups coconut milk
- 4 cups water
- 1 tsp curry
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 300 g flour
- 1 cup boiling water
- 250 g ground pork
- 100 g chopped shrimps
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup chopped Napa cabbage (45 g)
- 1 teaspoon minced ginger
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
- A dash of pepper
- 5 tablespoons Sriracha chili sauce
- 100 ml boiling water
- ½ tablespoon sugar
- ½ tablespoon vinegar
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 3 eggs
- 2/3 cup sugar (120 grams)
- 2 + 1/2 cup whole milk (600 grams)
- ½ cup cornstarch (60 grams)
- 1 vanilla pod (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- 1 cup full-fat cream (30% fat) (200 grams)
- puff pastry (or shortcrust or homemade)
Juliette HessI have been creating culinary content for Petitchef since 2017.
I love travelling and discovering new dishes, trying out new food trends and exploring new restaurants.
I’m a huge fan of pasta and noodles in all their forms ❤ from udon noodles to tagliatelle, I love cooking them and even making them from scratch!
I’m currently preparing, filming and photographing your next recipe, and I hope you’ll enjoy it!
I love travelling and discovering new dishes, trying out new food trends and exploring new restaurants.
I’m a huge fan of pasta and noodles in all their forms ❤ from udon noodles to tagliatelle, I love cooking them and even making them from scratch!
I’m currently preparing, filming and photographing your next recipe, and I hope you’ll enjoy it!



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