Sweet Potato Soup Recipe: A Perfect Blend of Fall Flavours
If you’re looking to savour the essence of autumn in a comforting bowl of Sweet Potato Soup, this recipe is just what you need.
Blending hearty vegetables, a hint of apple, and subtle spices, this soup not only warms the soul but also offers nutritional benefits.
This dish brings together ingredients like sweet potatoes, carrots, and celery, all gently simmered in a savoury broth that’s bursting with flavour.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner or simply craving a wholesome meal, this soup ticks all the boxes.
Why Sweet Potato Soup is the Perfect Autumn Comfort Food
Sweet potatoes are loaded with nutrients and pair beautifully with seasonal flavours. From creamy cheddar cheese to a dash of nutmeg, this recipe combines a rich depth of flavour that’s easy to prepare yet incredibly satisfying.
The blend of apple, nutmeg, and cheddar provides a taste profile that’s both sweet and savoury, perfect for cosy evenings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a soup that’s smooth and perfectly spiced, gather these essential ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- ¾ cup diced carrots
- 2 celery stalks
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs sweet potatoes, roughly three large ones
- 1 apple
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- 5½ cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup half and half or coconut milk
- ½ chicken bouillon cube
- 1½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon EACH: dried oregano, thyme, mustard powder, smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 pinch EACH: cayenne, nutmeg
How to Make Sweet Potato Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Begin by melting butter in a pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, and a touch of salt. Sauté for about 15-20 minutes until the veggies start to caramelise, releasing their natural sweetness.
Step 2: Add Flavours
Next, add minced garlic, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and your choice of seasonings. Stir for a couple of minutes to let the ingredients infuse the mixture.
Step 3: Add Sweet Potatoes and Apple
After peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes and apple, toss them into the pot. Stir them into the mix and cook for 10 minutes, letting the flavours meld.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Simmer
Pour in chicken broth and half and half or coconut milk, bringing the pot to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender enough to pierce with a fork.
Step 5: Blend to Perfection
Using an immersion blender (or transferring in batches to a stand blender), blend the soup until it’s silky smooth.
Step 6: Add the Cheddar
On low heat, sprinkle in the cheddar cheese gradually, allowing it to melt into the soup. Stir until the soup reaches your preferred thickness. Remember, the soup will thicken as it cools.
Pro Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Soup
- Cheese Selection: Shredding your own cheese from a block ensures a smoother melt. Sharp cheddar or gouda works beautifully.
- Temperature Control: Avoid adding cheese when the soup is too hot, as it may cause the cheese to become grainy. Keep the heat low for the best consistency.
- Broth Options: For a vegetarian option, switch the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Garnish Ideas: Add a touch of texture with toppings like pumpkin seeds, chopped bacon, chives, sunflower seeds, or croutons.
Storage and Reheating
This soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container, or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened.
FAQs About Sweet Potato Soup
What can I substitute for half and half?
Coconut milk is an excellent dairy-free alternative that adds a rich, creamy texture to the soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely. Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a fully vegetarian option.
Why is my cheese separating in the soup?
If the soup is too hot when you add the cheese, it may separate. Lower the heat and add cheese slowly for a smooth finish.
Can I freeze Sweet Potato Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container, and when reheating, add a bit of broth if needed.
What are good toppings for Sweet Potato Soup?
Try pumpkin seeds, bacon bits, chopped chives, or croutons to add texture and flavour.