Star anise-scented butternut soup

Place all of the ingredients, except the pumpkin seeds, in a saucepan over medium heat and simmer until the butternut is very soft, about 25 minutes.

Place the soup in a food processor and blend until smooth. Pass through a fine sieve, return to the saucepan, adjust the seasoning and reheat.

To serve, pour the warm soup into 2 bowls, drizzle with herb oil and garnish with pumpkin seeds, if desired.