Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

Indulge in the fusion of flavors presented by this Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup. This delectable soup combines the savory taste of Italian sausages, the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, and the hearty texture of black beans, all wrapped up in a spicy Caribbean Jerk twist. It's a comfort food that's perfect for any time of the year.

Photos of Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup are common household items, the Caribbean Jerk Marinade might not be readily available in your pantry. This marinade is a blend of allspice, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, thyme, garlic, brown sugar and hot pepper; it is commonly used to season meat in Caribbean cooking. If you don't find it in your local supermarket, check the international foods aisle.

Ingredients for Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup

Italian sausage links: These are the heart of the soup providing a rich, meaty flavor. We are using a combination of mild and hot to balance the flavors.

Low-sodium chicken broth: This forms the base of the soup. Low-sodium version is used to control the salt content.

Sweet potatoes: These add a natural sweetness to contrast the spicy sausage.

Caribbean Jerk Marinade: This gives the soup its unique, spicy twist.

Garlic: Adds a hint of sharp, aromatic flavor.

Ground thyme: Contributes an earthy, slightly minty flavor.

Ground cinnamon: Adds a touch of warmth and sweetness.

Black beans: These add heartiness and texture to the soup.

One reader, Finn Hammett says:

This spicy sausage and sweet potato soup recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The sweet potatoes add a delightful sweetness that perfectly balances the heat from the sausages. It's a comforting and satisfying dish that's become a staple in my home. Highly recommended!

Finn Hammett

Techniques Required for Making Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup

How to cook sausage: Cook sausage in a skillet over high heat until browned but not cooked through, about 3 to 5 minutes.
How to prepare sweet potatoes: Peel and dice the sweet potatoes into small, bite-sized pieces.
How to add black beans: Rinse and drain the black beans before adding them to the slow cooker.
How to adjust seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional jerk marinade if desired.

How To Make Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup

Find your next comfort food with this slow-cooked spicy sausage and sweet potato soup recipe. It has just enough heat to warm you up on a chilly day.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 5 hours 5 minutes

Total: 5 hours 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

3pcsmild Italian sausage linkscasings removed
2pcshot Italian sausage links,casings removed
14ozlow-sodium chicken broth(3 cans)
4smallsweet potatoespeeled and cubed
3tbspCarribbean jerk marinadeor to taste
2clovesgarlicminced
½tspground thyme
1pinchground cinnamon
15ozblack beans(1 can), rinsed and drained

Instructions

Slice sausage links into 1/2-inch chunks.
Cook sausages in a skillet over high heat until browned but not cooked through, 3 to 5 minutes.
Remove and pat dry with paper towels to remove excess fat.
Transfer to a slow cooker and add chicken broth, sweet potatoes, jerk marinade, garlic, thyme, and cinnamon.
Cook on High for 3 hours.
Add black beans, reduce heat to Low, and cook for an additional 2 hours.

Nutrition

Calories: 953.41kcal
Fat: 46.42g
Saturated Fat: 16.51g
Monounsaturated Fat: 20.66g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.48g
Carbohydrates: 88.57g
Fiber: 19.47g
Sugar: 6.47g
Protein: 46.71g
Cholesterol: 107.35mg
Sodium: 1121.51mg
Calcium: 192.93mg
Potassium: 2354.66mg
Iron: 7.85mg
Vitamin A: 691.52µg
Vitamin C: 5.79mg

Elevate Your Soup Skills with This Technique Tip

When slicing the Italian sausage links, it's important to keep the slices uniform in size. This ensures that the sausage cooks evenly in the skillet and in the slow cooker. Also, when adding the sweet potatoes to the slow cooker, make sure they are cut into bite-sized pieces. Larger pieces may take longer to cook and could result in an unevenly cooked soup. Lastly, remember to rinse and drain the black beans before adding them to the soup. This will remove any excess sodium and keep your soup from becoming too salty.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Delicious Soup

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

Use pre-cooked ingredients: Consider using pre-cooked sausages or canned beans to cut down on cooking time.

Slow cooker magic: Utilize a slow cooker to let the flavors meld together while saving time on active cooking.

Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

mild italian sausage links - Substitute with chorizo sausage: Chorizo sausage has a similar spicy flavor and can add a smoky depth to the soup.
hot italian sausage links - Substitute with andouille sausage: Andouille sausage provides a spicy kick and a smoky flavor, complementing the sweet potatoes and adding depth to the soup.
low-sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a flavorful alternative, adding depth and richness to the soup.
sweet potatoes - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash offers a similar sweet and nutty flavor, adding a creamy texture and depth to the soup.
caribbean jerk marinade - Substitute with cayenne pepper and allspice: A combination of cayenne pepper and allspice can replicate the spicy and aromatic flavors of the Caribbean jerk marinade.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to garlic, adding depth to the soup without overpowering the other ingredients.
ground thyme - Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano can offer a similar earthy and aromatic flavor, complementing the other ingredients in the soup.
ground cinnamon - Substitute with ground nutmeg: Ground nutmeg can provide a warm and slightly sweet flavor, enhancing the sweetness of the sweet potatoes in the soup.
black beans - Substitute with red kidney beans: Red kidney beans can offer a similar hearty texture and earthy flavor, adding protein and substance to the soup.

Elevate Your Soup Game: Presentation Tips

Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the sliced sausage and sweet potatoes in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each ingredient is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the soup with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Add a drizzle of spiced oil: Create a visually stunning effect by drizzling a spiced oil, such as chili-infused olive oil, in an artistic pattern over the soup.
Serve in elegant bowls: Present the spicy sausage and sweet potato soup in elegant, handcrafted ceramic bowls to add a touch of sophistication to the dish.
Accompany with artisan bread: Serve the soup with a side of warm, crusty artisan bread to complement the flavors and provide a delightful textural contrast.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by garnishing the soup with delicate, edible flowers, such as nasturtiums or pansies, for a visually stunning presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup

Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients.
Slow cooker: A countertop electrical cooking appliance used for simmering food at a low temperature over a long period of time.
Paper towels: Absorbent towels used for drying or cleaning up spills and messes in the kitchen.

Preserving Your Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup: Storage and Freezing Tips

Allow the spicy sausage and sweet potato soup to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
When ready to reheat, warm the soup gently in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
Leave some headspace in the containers or bags to allow for expansion during freezing.
Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
Frozen spicy sausage and sweet potato soup can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave.
Once thawed, transfer the soup to a pot and reheat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors may change slightly after freezing and thawing.
If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a little chicken broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.

How To Reheat Leftover Soup

Reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the sausage and sweet potatoes are evenly heated throughout.
If you're short on time, you can reheat the soup in the microwave. Transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the soup is heated through.
For a quick and easy lunch, reheat the soup in a thermos. In the morning, heat the soup in a saucepan or microwave until it's piping hot. Pour the hot soup into a pre-warmed thermos and seal it tightly. The soup will stay warm until lunchtime.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover soup, try reheating it with some fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice or a dollop of sour cream to brighten up the flavors.
For a crispy twist, reheat the soup in a saucepan and serve it with some crusty bread or tortilla chips. The contrast of the creamy soup and the crunchy bread or chips will add an extra layer of texture to your meal.

Interesting Trivia About Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup

Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision and a strong immune system.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is This Soup Recipe Economical?

This spicy sausage and sweet potato soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as sausage, sweet potatoes, and black beans, are affordable and readily available. The use of simple seasonings and low-sodium chicken broth keeps the cost down. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15. The hearty and flavorful nature of this dish makes it a satisfying and budget-friendly option. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.

Is This Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Healthy?

The spicy sausage and sweet potato soup recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:

The recipe uses both mild and hot Italian sausages, which are typically high in saturated fat and sodium. Consuming excessive amounts of these can increase the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure.
While sweet potatoes are a nutritious ingredient, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals, the recipe doesn't include a significant amount of other vegetables, which could make the soup more balanced and nutrient-dense.
The recipe calls for Caribbean jerk marinade, which may contain added sugars and sodium, further increasing the overall sodium content of the dish.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for lean turkey or chicken sausages instead of traditional pork sausages to reduce the saturated fat content.
Increase the variety of vegetables in the soup by adding carrots, celery, onions, and leafy greens like spinach or kale. This will boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the dish.
Reduce the amount of Caribbean jerk marinade or replace it with a homemade blend of spices, such as allspice, thyme, garlic, and cayenne pepper, to control the sodium and sugar content.
Use low-sodium or no-salt-added black beans to further reduce the sodium content of the soup.
Consider using a combination of low-sodium chicken broth and water to decrease the overall sodium levels without compromising flavor.

By making these adjustments, you can transform this spicy sausage and sweet potato soup into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still delivers on taste and satisfaction.

Editor's Take on This Flavorful Soup Recipe

This spicy sausage and sweet potato soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of mild and hot Italian sausages adds depth and richness to the soup, while the sweet potatoes and Caribbean jerk marinade provide a hint of sweetness and warmth. The addition of black beans brings a satisfying heartiness to the dish. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a comforting and aromatic soup that is perfect for a cozy evening at home. It's a wonderful balance of spicy, savory, and sweet, making it a standout dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets with olive oil, garlic, and parmesan cheese, then roast until crispy and golden brown.

Honey Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sauté carrots in a honey and thyme glaze until tender and caramelized for a sweet and savory side dish.

Grilled Pineapple Slices with Chili Lime Seasoning: Grill pineapple slices and sprinkle with a zesty chili lime seasoning for a refreshing and tangy accompaniment to the spicy sausage and sweet potato soup.

Discover Similar Soup Recipes to Tantalize Your Taste Buds

Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Stew: This hearty stew combines spicy sausage, sweet potatoes, and a variety of flavorful spices for a satisfying meal.

Honey Glazed Carrots: These tender carrots are coated in a sweet and sticky honey glaze, making them the perfect side dish for any meal.

Lemon Garlic Roasted Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, this roasted chicken is seasoned with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic for a delicious main course.

Berry Cobbler: This classic dessert features a medley of sweet and tart berries topped with a buttery, golden-brown cobbler crust.

Appetizers and Desserts: Crafting a Well-Rounded Soup Meal

Appetizers:

Spicy Stuffed Jalapenos: These spicy stuffed jalapenos are the perfect appetizer to kick off your meal. Filled with a creamy cheese mixture and topped with crispy bacon, they are sure to be a hit with your guests.

Savory Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This savory spinach and artichoke dip is a classic appetizer that never fails to please. Creamy and cheesy, it pairs perfectly with crispy tortilla chips or toasted bread for a delicious start to any meal.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey goodness. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Apple Crisp: Savor the flavors of fall with a warm and comforting apple crisp. The combination of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy oat topping will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Why trust this Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe:

This recipe is a trustworthy choice for your kitchen. The combination of mild Italian sausage and hot Italian sausage provides a rich and complex flavor profile. The addition of sweet potatoes and Caribbean jerk marinade offers a unique and exciting twist. The use of low-sodium chicken broth ensures a healthier option without compromising taste. The incorporation of black beans adds a hearty and nutritious element. With these high-quality ingredients, this recipe promises a delightful and satisfying dining experience.

Share your thoughts on this Spicy Sausage and Sweet Potato Soup Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to suggest.

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of sausage if you prefer. You can try using chorizo, Andouille, or any other type of sausage that you enjoy.

Can I substitute the sweet potatoes with regular potatoes?

Absolutely! You can substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes if you prefer. Just keep in mind that regular potatoes might alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this soup by using plant-based sausages and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and celery for added flavor and texture.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Definitely! You can cook this soup on the stovetop by following the same steps and simmering it over low heat for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool the soup completely before freezing it. When ready to eat, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.