African Peanut Soup Recipe

This flavorful West African Peanut Soup recipe is a culinary gem. It combines the richness of peanuts with the depth of spices, offering a unique dining experience. It's a traditional dish made with readily available ingredients, savored in many West African countries. This simple, yet hearty, soup creates a blend of textures and flavors that are sure to delight your palate.

Photos of West African Peanut Soup Recipe

You might not be familiar with a couple of the ingredients. Fresh ginger root and cilantro might not be regular items in your pantry. Ginger root is often available in the fresh produce section of most grocery stores, and it provides a distinct, spicy flavor that enhances the soup. Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a fresh herb that adds a refreshing taste. Peanuts and peanut butter are central to this dish, lending it its unique taste and texture.

Ingredients for West African Peanut Soup

Vegetable oil: A common cooking medium that lends a neutral flavor to dishes.

Onion: A staple ingredient in many cuisines, providing a sweet, aromatic base.

Garlic: Offers a pungent flavor that deepens and sweetens with cooking.

Fresh ginger root: Provides a hot, fragrant flavor to the recipe.

Cumin: A spice that adds a warm and earthy flavor.

Cinnamon: A warm, sweet spice that complements the soup's flavor.

Cloves: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor that pairs well with other spices.

Cayenne pepper: Lends a spicy kick to the recipe.

Fresh tomatoes: They add a fresh and tangy flavor.

Sweet potatoes: Adds a mild sweetness and creamy texture.

Peanuts: Gives a crunchiness and nutty flavor.

Chicken stock: The base of the soup, adds depth and flavor.

Peanut butter: Adds creaminess and a rich, nutty flavor.

Cilantro: Provides a fresh, citrusy note which balances the rich flavors.

One reader, Deidre Still says:

This West African peanut soup recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices and creamy peanut butter creates a rich, comforting flavor. The sweet potatoes add a delightful touch, and the cilantro garnish gives it a fresh finish. It's a must-try for anyone looking to explore new flavors!

Deidre Still

Techniques for Preparing West African Peanut Soup

How to sauté the onion: Sauté the onion in hot oil over medium heat for about 8 minutes until lightly browned.

How to meld the flavors: Stir in the garlic, ginger, cumin, cinnamon, cloves, and cayenne and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes to release their fragrance, then stir in the tomatoes and sweet potatoes and cook for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.

How to purée the soup: Remove the soup from the heat and use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth.

How to whisk in the peanut butter and cilantro: After puréeing the soup, whisk in the peanut butter and chopped cilantro until well combined.

How to season the soup: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste and heat through before serving.

How To Make West African Peanut Soup

An exquisite dish particular in West Africa, this peanut soup tastes like a new-found haven of peanuty puree seasoned with various herbs and spices!

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 50 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspvegetable oil
1large onion,chopped
1tbspgarlic,minced
1tbspfresh ginger root,or 1 tsp ground ginger, minced
2tspcumin
½tspcinnamon,ground
¼tspcloves,ground
¼tspcayenne pepper
2cupsfresh tomatoes,diced, crushed
2large sweet potatoes,peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes
¾cuppeanuts,roasted
6cupschicken stock,or vegetable stock for vegetarians
½cuppeanut butter
½bunch cilantro,leaves chopped
Salt and freshly-ground black pepper,to taste

Instructions

Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté the onion for about 8 minutes until lightly browned.
Stir in the garlic, ginger, cumin, cinnamon, cloves, and cayenne. Sauté together for about 2 to 3 minutes to release their fragrance. Then stir in the tomatoes and sweet potatoes, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Add the stock and peanuts. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 30 minutes.
Remove the soup from the heat. Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth. Return the soup to the saucepan.
Whisk in the peanut butter and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper, and heat through.
Serve and garnish with additional chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, and/or tomatoes.

Recipe Notes

Nutrition

Calories: 519.05kcal
Fat: 33.53g
Saturated Fat: 5.39g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 17.91g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 8.32g
Carbohydrates: 39.28g
Fiber: 6.78g
Sugar: 13.96g
Protein: 20.91g
Cholesterol: 8.64mg
Sodium: 1172.26mg
Calcium: 91.40mg
Potassium: 1056.67mg
Iron: 3.39mg
Vitamin A: 504.70µg
Vitamin C: 14.34mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing West African Peanut Soup

When using an immersion blender to purée the soup, ensure the blender is fully submerged to avoid splattering. Also, remember to blend in a slow, controlled motion to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more chicken stock to thin it out.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Peanut Soup

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

One-pot wonder: Opt for one-pot recipes to minimize cleanup and save time.

Batch cooking: Make a larger quantity and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient future meals.

Efficient tools: Use kitchen gadgets like food processors and immersion blenders to speed up prep and cooking.

Time-saving ingredients: Utilize pre-cut vegetables, canned beans, and quick-cooking grains for faster meal preparation.

Follow the recipe: Stick to the recipe to avoid unnecessary steps and save time on guesswork.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and dishes while cooking to minimize post-cooking cleanup.

Multi-task: Coordinate tasks to cook multiple components simultaneously, optimizing time in the kitchen.

Organized workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and tidy to work efficiently and find ingredients easily.

Plan ahead: Create a meal plan for the week to streamline grocery shopping and meal preparation.

Substitute Ingredients For West African Peanut Soup Recipe

vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can add a rich, tropical flavor to the soup, complementing the other West African-inspired ingredients.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for chopping or mincing.
fresh ginger root - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger root, providing a convenient alternative with a similar flavor profile.
cumin - Substitute with coriander: Coriander can be used as a substitute for cumin, offering a slightly different but complementary flavor to the dish.
cinnamon - Substitute with allspice: Allspice can be used as a substitute for cinnamon, providing a warm and aromatic flavor to the soup.
cloves - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can be used as a substitute for cloves, adding a warm and slightly sweet flavor to the soup.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with paprika: Paprika can be used as a substitute for cayenne pepper, providing a milder heat and a rich, smoky flavor to the dish.
fresh tomatoes - Substitute with canned tomatoes: Canned tomatoes can be used as a substitute for fresh tomatoes, providing a convenient alternative when fresh tomatoes are not available.
sweet potatoes - Substitute with butternut squash: Butternut squash can be used as a substitute for sweet potatoes, offering a similar sweet and nutty flavor to the soup.
peanuts - Substitute with cashews: Cashews can be used as a substitute for peanuts, providing a creamy and slightly sweet flavor to the soup.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can be used as a substitute for chicken stock, providing a vegetarian-friendly alternative with a rich, savory flavor.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter, offering a nutty and slightly sweet flavor to the soup.
cilantro - Substitute with parsley: Parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Peanut Soup

Elevate the plating: When presenting the West African Peanut Soup, focus on creating a visually appealing plate. Use a wide-rimmed bowl to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the soup.
Garnish with finesse: Sprinkle a pinch of finely chopped cilantro on top of the soup for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. This will add a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a small handful of crushed peanuts on top of the soup to provide a delightful crunch and enhance the overall sensory experience.
Balance the elements: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Ensure that the soup, garnishes, and any additional elements are arranged harmoniously to create a visually balanced presentation.
Use complementary dishware: Select a complementary serving dish that not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the flavors and cultural origins of the West African Peanut Soup.
Highlight the ingredients: Consider placing a few whole peanuts or slices of sweet potato on the rim of the bowl to showcase the key ingredients and provide a hint of what lies within the soup.
Artful drizzling: Before serving, drizzle a small amount of high-quality peanut oil on the surface of the soup in an artful manner, adding a glossy finish and a hint of nutty aroma.
Attention to detail: Wipe the edges of the bowl to ensure a clean presentation, paying attention to every detail to demonstrate precision and care in the plating process.

Essential Tools for Making West African Peanut Soup

Vegetable oil: Used for sautéing and adding flavor to the soup.
Large dutch oven: A heavy pot used for cooking the soup over medium heat.
Immersion blender: Used to purée the soup until smooth.
Whisk: Used to incorporate the peanut butter and chopped cilantro into the soup.
Chopping board: Used for chopping the onion, garlic, ginger, and cilantro.
Knife: Used for chopping and mincing the vegetables and herbs.
Measuring spoons: Used for accurately measuring the spices and seasonings.
Measuring cups: Used for accurately measuring the peanuts, peanut butter, and chicken stock.
Wooden spoon: Used for stirring the soup while cooking.
Soup ladle: Used for serving the soup into bowls.
Saucepan: Used for returning the puréed soup to heat and incorporating the peanut butter and cilantro.
Cutting board: Used for chopping and preparing the vegetables and peanuts.
Can opener: Used for opening the can of peanut butter.
Peeler: Used for peeling the sweet potatoes.

Storing and Freezing West African Peanut Soup

Allow the west african peanut soup to cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To freeze the soup, follow these steps:
- Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing.
- Frozen west african peanut soup can be stored for up to 3 months.
To reheat the soup, follow these methods:
- For refrigerated soup, transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- For frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or place the frozen container in a bowl of cold water for faster thawing.
- Once thawed, transfer the soup to a saucepan and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
If the reheated soup appears too thick, add a little water or chicken stock to achieve the desired consistency.
Taste the reheated soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish the reheated west african peanut soup with fresh cilantro, crushed peanuts, and/or diced tomatoes before serving.

How To Reheat Leftover Peanut Soup

To reheat leftover west african peanut soup, start by transferring the desired portion into a saucepan or pot. Place the pan on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the soup from sticking or burning on the bottom.
As the soup begins to heat up, you may notice that it has thickened considerably due to the peanut butter and sweet potatoes. If this is the case, gradually add small amounts of chicken stock, water, or even coconut milk to thin the soup to your desired consistency. Be sure to stir well after each addition to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.
Continue to heat the soup, stirring frequently, until it reaches a gentle simmer. Allow the soup to simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until it is heated through and the flavors have melded together once again. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can also use the microwave. Transfer the desired portion of soup into a microwave-safe bowl, and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring well between each interval. Continue this process until the soup is heated through and reaches your desired temperature.
Once the west african peanut soup is heated through, ladle it into serving bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro, crushed peanuts, and/or diced tomatoes for added texture and flavor. Serve the soup immediately, and enjoy the delicious, comforting flavors of this classic African dish.

Interesting Fact About West African Peanut Soup

The West African Peanut Soup is a popular dish in countries like Ghana and Nigeria. It is often enjoyed during festive occasions and celebrations. Peanuts, a key ingredient in the soup, are a significant crop in West Africa and are used in various traditional dishes. The combination of peanuts and sweet potatoes in this soup not only creates a rich and creamy texture but also provides a nutritious and satisfying meal. Peanuts are a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making this soup both delicious and nourishing.

Is Making Peanut Soup at Home Cost-Effective?

The West African Peanut Soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The key ingredients like sweet potatoes, peanuts, and vegetable oil are generally affordable and readily available. The addition of chicken stock and peanut butter may slightly increase the cost, but these ingredients are versatile and can be used in various other recipes. Overall, this recipe offers a good balance of cost and flavor. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate it an 8 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $15-$20, making it a budget-friendly option.

Is West African Peanut Soup Healthy?

The West African peanut soup recipe is a nutritious and flavorful dish that offers several health benefits. The combination of vegetables, spices, and peanuts provides a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision and immune function. Peanuts and peanut butter are rich in monounsaturated fats, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The spices used in the recipe, such as cumin, cinnamon, and ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion.

However, there are a few aspects of the recipe that could be improved to make it even healthier:

Reduce the amount of oil used for sautéing the onions and consider using a healthier option like olive oil or coconut oil
Opt for low-sodium or homemade chicken stock to control the salt content of the soup
Increase the variety of vegetables by adding leafy greens like spinach or kale, which are rich in vitamins and minerals
Use natural peanut butter without added sugars or oils to minimize the intake of processed ingredients
Serve the soup with a side of whole grain bread or quinoa for added fiber and nutrients

By making these small adjustments, you can enhance the nutritional value of the West African peanut soup while still enjoying its delicious taste and creamy texture. The soup is a great option for a comforting and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Editor's Opinion on This Peanut Soup Recipe

This West African peanut soup recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The combination of sweet potatoes, peanuts, and aromatic spices creates a rich and satisfying soup. The addition of peanut butter adds a creamy and nutty depth, while the cilantro provides a fresh and herbaceous note. The soup is well-balanced and comforting, making it a perfect choice for a cozy meal. The recipe is well-structured and easy to follow, resulting in a delicious and authentic West African dish.

Enhance Your West African Peanut Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Plantains: Slice the plantains and toss them in a mixture of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven until they are golden and caramelized on the edges.

Grilled Pineapple Skewers: Thread pineapple chunks onto skewers and grill them until they have beautiful grill marks and are slightly caramelized.

Coconut Rice: Cook the rice in coconut milk instead of water for a creamy and fragrant side dish that pairs perfectly with the peanut soup.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to West African Peanut Soup

Spicy Thai Coconut Soup: This soup is a perfect blend of spicy and creamy flavors, with a hint of lemongrass and coconut milk to give it a unique twist.

Mango Avocado Salsa: This refreshing salsa combines the sweetness of mango with the creaminess of avocado, perfect for topping grilled fish or chicken.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These Brussels sprouts are roasted to perfection and then drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze, making them a delicious and healthy side dish option.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts to Complement West African Peanut Soup

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a mouthwatering appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and serve hot for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Coconut Shrimp: Whip up a tropical-inspired appetizer by coating shrimp in a crispy coconut breading. Fry until golden and serve with a tangy dipping sauce for a delightful and crunchy treat.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Pie: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a classic apple pie, with a flaky golden crust and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess.

Why trust this West African Peanut Soup Recipe:

This recipe offers an authentic taste of West African cuisine, featuring peanuts and aromatic spices. The combination of cumin, cinnamon, and cloves creates a rich and flavorful base, while the addition of peanut butter adds a creamy texture. The use of fresh ginger and garlic enhances the depth of flavor. With the inclusion of sweet potatoes and tomatoes, this soup provides a nutritious and satisfying meal. The final touch of cilantro adds a burst of freshness. Trust in this recipe for an authentic and delicious taste of West Africa.

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FAQ:

What type of peanuts should I use for this recipe?

You can use unsalted, dry-roasted peanuts for this recipe. If you prefer, you can also use raw peanuts and roast them yourself before adding them to the soup.

Can I use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for this recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely use vegetable stock as a substitute for chicken stock to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan-friendly.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

If you prefer a spicier soup, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your taste. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Can I make this soup ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, this soup reheats well, so you can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it gently over low heat to prevent the peanut butter from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop when you're ready to enjoy it again.