Spicy Peanut Soup with Sweet Potato

Warm, hearty, and full of bold, rich flavors, Spicy Peanut Soup with Sweet Potato is a comforting and nourishing dish that brings a unique twist to your typical soup routine. With West African-inspired roots, this soup combines creamy peanut butter, vibrant sweet potatoes, and bold spices to create a perfectly balanced, plant-based meal. The creamy texture is beautifully contrasted by the slight crunch of chickpeas and the leafy bite of kale, making every spoonful a satisfying experience.

This recipe is both wholesome and filling, rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It’s an excellent option for vegans and vegetarians but equally appealing to anyone looking to try something hearty, exotic, and flavor-packed. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or looking for a one-pot dinner to warm you up on a cold day, this soup delivers comfort in every bowl.

Topped with rice, chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of hot sauce, it becomes a vibrant and customizable dish. The spice level is easily adjustable, making it perfect for a variety of palates. This soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a flavorful journey you’ll want to revisit again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich, Creamy Texture – Thanks to the natural peanut butter, the soup has a luxurious creaminess without any dairy.
2. Plant-Based Powerhouse – Packed with protein from chickpeas and peanut butter, and full of fiber and vitamins from kale and sweet potato.
3. Bold, Balanced Flavors – A beautiful blend of sweet, spicy, and savory that keeps each bite interesting.
4. One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor—ideal for weeknight cooking.
5. Easily Customizable – Adjust the heat, toppings, or base to make it your own.

Ingredients

• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Fresh grated ginger
• Sweet potato
• Ground cumin
• Red chili flakes
• Tomato paste
• Vegetable broth
• Creamy natural peanut butter
• Chickpeas
• Kale
• Salt
• Rice (brown or white)
• Chopped cilantro
• Chopped peanuts
• Additional red chili flakes or hot sauce (optional)

Variations

• Add Protein: Stir in shredded cooked chicken or tofu for an added protein boost.
• Switch the Greens: Use spinach or Swiss chard instead of kale for a softer texture.
• Make It Milder: Skip the chili flakes and hot sauce for a more kid-friendly version.
• Nut-Free Option: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter if allergic.
• Use Coconut Milk: Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy, tropical twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 2

Add the minced garlic and fresh ginger. Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3

Add diced sweet potato, ground cumin, and red chili flakes. Stir to coat the sweet potatoes with the spices.

Step 4

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 5

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 6

Whisk in the peanut butter until fully incorporated. Add chickpeas and chopped kale.

Step 7

Continue simmering for 5-10 more minutes, until the kale is wilted and tender. Season with salt to taste.

Step 8

Serve hot over rice, topped with chopped cilantro, peanuts, and additional chili flakes or hot sauce if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Dice sweet potatoes evenly so they cook uniformly.
• Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or oils for the best flavor.
• Blend part of the soup for an extra creamy texture while keeping some chunks.
• Adjust spices to your heat preference—start mild and build.
• Let it rest 10 minutes before serving for deeper flavor.

How to Serve

• Spoon over fluffy white or brown rice for a more filling meal.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro and chopped peanuts for added texture and freshness.
• Serve with warm flatbread or naan to soak up every drop.
• Add a squeeze of lime juice just before serving for a bright finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the soup completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.

FAQs

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

Yes, but it will slightly alter the flavor. Peanut butter provides the most authentic taste.

2. Is this soup spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat. You can adjust the spice level with fewer or more chili flakes or hot sauce.

3. Can I make this soup oil-free?

Yes. Use a splash of water or vegetable broth to sauté the vegetables instead of oil.

4. Is it gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.

5. What kind of peanut butter should I use?

Use creamy, unsweetened natural peanut butter for the best results.

6. Can I blend the soup?

You can! Blend half for a creamier texture while keeping some chunks for bite.

7. What can I substitute for kale?

Spinach, Swiss chard, or collard greens work well as substitutes.

8. How can I add more protein?

Add cooked lentils, tofu, or shredded chicken for a protein boost.

9. Does it taste sweet because of the sweet potatoes?

The sweetness is subtle and balanced by the spices and peanut butter.

10. Can I use canned sweet potatoes?

Fresh sweet potatoes are recommended for texture, but canned can work in a pinch—adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Conclusion

Spicy Peanut Soup with Sweet Potato is a flavorful, filling, and deeply nourishing dish that’s perfect for any season. With its comforting blend of spices, hearty ingredients, and creamy texture, it brings warmth and joy to the table. Whether you’re enjoying it as a weeknight dinner, meal prep option, or introducing new flavors to your menu, this soup is bound to impress. Easy to make, versatile, and absolutely delicious—this is one recipe you’ll want to keep in regular rotation.

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