Spicy Peanut Soup with Sweet Potatoes and Kale: A Nutrient-Packed Comfort Food Recipe
Why Spicy Peanut Soup with Sweet Potatoes Is a Must-Try
Craving something hearty, nutritious, and packed with bold flavors? Our Spicy Peanut Soup with Sweet Potatoes and Kale is the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and nourishing goodness. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a wholesome meal.
This delicious peanut soup is inspired by the famous West African peanut stew, also known as maafe or groundnut soup. It brings together sweet potatoes, peanut butter, and fire-roasted tomatoes, resulting in a rich, velvety texture with an irresistible depth of flavor.
Whether you love traditional peanut soups or are trying it for the first time, this dish will become a new favorite in your home.
Let’s dive into how to make this comforting Spicy Peanut Soup at home in under an hour!
Ingredients for Spicy Peanut Soup
You’ll love how simple yet flavorful the ingredients are. Most of these items are pantry staples, making it easy to whip up a batch anytime you need a warm, cozy meal.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Adds a rich base to sauté the aromatics.
- 1/2 onion, diced – Provides a sweet and savory depth.
- 1 jalapeño, minced – Adds a subtle kick; adjust based on spice preference.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For aromatic warmth and depth of flavor.
- 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed – Offers natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
- 1 (14-ounce) can of fire-roasted tomatoes – Provides a smoky, rich tomato base.
- 1 tsp curry powder – For an added layer of spice and complexity.
- 1 tsp turmeric – Adds a golden hue and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- 1/4 cup peanut butter – The heart of this soup, creating a nutty, creamy consistency.
- 1/2 cup chopped peanuts – For texture and extra crunch.
- 1–2 cups kale, stems removed, chopped – Boosts the nutrient content with vitamins and minerals.
- 1–2 cups water – To reach the perfect consistency.
How to Make Spicy Peanut Soup at Home
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, jalapeño, and garlic, stirring frequently. Cook until they become soft and fragrant, about 3–5 minutes.
2. Cook the Sweet Potatoes
Once the aromatics are fragrant, add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes to develop a slight caramelization, enhancing the soup’s natural sweetness.
3. Add Liquids and Spices
Pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes, coconut milk, and water, then stir in the curry powder, turmeric, and salt. Allow the soup to simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes soften.
4. Stir in Peanut Butter and Kale
Once the sweet potatoes are tender, add peanut butter and kale. Stir well until the peanut butter is fully incorporated, making the soup creamy and rich.
5. Blend and Serve
For a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, leaving some chunks for texture. Alternatively, you can transfer half the soup to a blender, then return it to the pot.
6. Garnish and Enjoy!
Ladle the spicy peanut soup into bowls, topping with extra chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro. Serve warm with crusty bread, quinoa, or rice for a wholesome, satisfying meal.
What to Serve with Spicy Peanut Soup
Looking to make this dish even heartier? Here are some great accompaniments:
- Steamed rice or quinoa – A great way to soak up all that creamy goodness.
- Toasted bread or flatbreads – The perfect dipping companions.
- Avocado slices – Adds a smooth, buttery contrast to the spicy soup.
- Fresh herbs and lime wedges – A dash of fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime elevate the flavors beautifully.
- Chopped nuts and seeds – Adds a crunchy texture to every spoonful.
Spicy Peanut Soup FAQs
Can I make this spicy peanut soup in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Add all ingredients except peanut butter and kale, then cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. Once done, stir in peanut butter and kale for a creamy finish.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook all ingredients, except peanut butter and kale, on low for 6 hours. Then, stir in peanut butter and kale before serving.
Can I use a different leafy green instead of kale?
Definitely! Spinach or Swiss chard would work just as well and provide a similar nutrient boost.
How do I add more protein to this vegetarian soup?
Adding chickpeas or lentils makes this soup richer in protein, offering extra nourishment.
Can I store and freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reference Links:
West African Peanut Stew Recipe
Fire Roasted Tomatoes: Nutritional Benefits
The Power of Peanuts in Cooking
Benefits of Eating Sweet Potatoes