Teresa's Recipes
West African Groundnut Soup
Embark on a culinary journey to West Africa with this nourishing Groundnut Soup, a beloved dish that embodies the rich and diverse flavors of the region. The creamy texture of peanut butter melds beautifully with a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, creating a hearty meal that warms the soul. Originating from the traditional cuisines of Ghana and Nigeria, this soup highlights peanuts, a staple ingredient that not only adds depth but also offers a delightful protein boost. Perfect for cozy evenings, serve it with crusty bread or fluffy rice for a satisfying experience that transports you to the vibrant streets of West Africa!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup, chopped (for garnish) Fresh cilantro
- 1 can (13.5 oz) Coconut milk
- to taste Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon (adjust for heat preference) Cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon Curry powder
- 4 cups Vegetable broth
- 1 large, peeled and diced Sweet potato
- 1 large, diced Carrot
- 1, chopped Red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon, grated Ginger
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 large, chopped Onion
- 1 cup, roasted and unsalted (for peanut butter) Peanuts
- 2 tablespoons (for sautéing) Oil
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Soup
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Carbs: 30g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 5g
Instructions
- In a blender or food processor, grind the roasted peanuts until smooth to create a creamy peanut butter. Set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture is fragrant and the onions are translucent.
- Stir in the tomato paste, chopped red bell pepper, diced carrot, and diced sweet potato. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the prepared peanut butter, vegetable broth, curry powder, cayenne pepper, and salt to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Once cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. For a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and return it to the pot.
- Stir in the coconut milk and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the Groundnut Soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro leaves. Enjoy with warm bread or over rice for a complete meal.
Tips
- For a vegan version, ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
- Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of cayenne pepper.