Spicy Peanut Soup with Sweet Potato: A Bold and Comforting Bowl

Spicy Peanut Soup with Sweet Potato is a rich, hearty, and nourishing meal that combines bold African-inspired flavors with wholesome ingredients. This vibrant soup features creamy peanut butter, tender sweet potatoes, and fiber-packed chickpeas, all simmered in a fragrant blend of garlic, ginger, cumin, and chili flakes. Tomato paste adds depth, while chopped kale brings freshness and a nutrient boost. Served over rice and garnished with cilantro, peanuts, or an extra splash of heat, this dish offers a satisfying balance of creaminess, spice, and texture.

This soup is perfect for cool nights or when you’re craving something deeply comforting yet unique. It’s a one-pot meal that’s vegan, gluten-free, and packed with plant-based protein. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable to what you have on hand—making it a favorite for home cooks who want both flavor and flexibility. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this soup offers soul-warming goodness that gets better with every spoonful. If you’re new to peanut-based savory dishes, this soup just might convert you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Unique Flavor Profile – The creamy peanut base paired with warm spices and sweet potatoes creates a deeply flavorful experience.
2. Plant-Based and Protein-Rich – Chickpeas and peanut butter provide ample plant-based protein and fiber.
3. One-Pot Simplicity – Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.
4. Great for Meal Prep – This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.
5. Customizable Heat and Toppings – Adjust spice levels and finish with your favorite garnishes for a personalized bowl.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Fresh ginger
• Sweet potato
• Ground cumin
• Red chili flakes
• Tomato paste
• Vegetable broth
• Natural creamy peanut butter
• Chickpeas
• Kale
• Salt
• Brown or white rice (for serving)
• Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
• Chopped peanuts (for garnish)
• Additional red chili flakes or hot sauce (optional)

Variations

• Add Protein: Toss in cubed tofu or shredded chicken (if not vegan) for extra protein.
• Use Spinach Instead of Kale: Baby spinach wilts faster and adds a milder flavor.
• Make It Thicker: Reduce the broth slightly or mash some of the sweet potatoes for a thicker texture.
• Nut-Free Option: Use sunflower seed butter as a substitute for peanut butter.
• Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for even more nutritional variety.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 1 minute more.

Step 2: Cook the Sweet Potato

Add diced sweet potatoes, ground cumin, and red chili flakes. Cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the potatoes in spices.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Broth

Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen the flavor. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Stir in Peanut Butter and Chickpeas

Whisk in peanut butter until fully dissolved into the broth. Add chickpeas and stir to combine.

Step 6: Add Kale and Adjust Seasoning

Stir in chopped kale and simmer for 3–5 minutes until wilted. Season with salt to taste.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot over brown or white rice. Garnish with chopped cilantro, peanuts, and extra chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use natural peanut butter for the best flavor and consistency.
• Dice sweet potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Adjust spice level gradually—start with less chili and add more as needed.
• Add broth slowly after stirring in peanut butter to avoid clumping.
• Prep toppings ahead for easy serving, especially if making for guests or meal prep.

How to Serve

Ladle the soup over a bed of brown or white rice for a heartier meal. Top with fresh cilantro, chopped peanuts, and a splash of hot sauce or extra chili flakes for added flavor and texture. Serve with warm flatbread or naan on the side to scoop up the creamy broth.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool soup completely and transfer to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened during storage.

FAQs

1. Can I use almond butter instead of peanut butter?

Yes, though it will slightly change the flavor. Use a natural, unsweetened variety.

2. How spicy is this soup?

It has a mild-to-moderate heat level. Adjust the chili flakes to suit your taste.

3. Can I make this without tomato paste?

You can substitute with crushed tomatoes or leave it out for a slightly different but still tasty result.

4. What type of kale works best?

Curly or lacinato kale both work well. Just be sure to remove the stems.

5. Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes, sauté the aromatics first, then add everything (except kale) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours, stir in kale at the end.

6. What’s the best way to serve this soup?

Over rice with garnishes like cilantro, chopped peanuts, and hot sauce.

7. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free if your broth and toppings are certified gluten-free.

8. Can I blend the soup for a creamy texture?

Yes, blend a portion (or all) of the soup for a smoother consistency.

9. How do I thicken the soup?

Mash some of the sweet potatoes or reduce the broth slightly.

10. Can I add coconut milk?

Yes, adding coconut milk will enhance the creaminess and give it a mild sweetness.

Conclusion

Spicy Peanut Soup with Sweet Potato is a comforting, nourishing, and deeply flavorful dish that brings together creamy, spicy, and savory elements in every spoonful. Packed with plant-based protein, hearty vegetables, and warm spices, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Whether you’re meal prepping, looking for a cozy dinner, or trying something new, this soup offers a rich and rewarding experience you’ll want to revisit again and again.

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