This vibrant Spicy Peanut Soup blends creamy peanut butter with wholesome vegetables for a comforting, protein-packed meal.
Rich in plant-based protein, fiber, and heart-healthy fats, it’s naturally nourishing and low in saturated fat.
Quick to prepare in just 30 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or whenever you crave a hearty, flavorful, and wholesome dish.
Spicy Peanut Soup
Equipment
- 1 large pot (at least 6 quarts)
- 1 cutting board
- 1 sharp knife
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 measuring cup
- Measuring Spoons
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger grated
- 1 medium sweet potato peeled and diced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 6 ounces tomato paste
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- ¾ cup creamy natural peanut butter
- 1 15-ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 5 cups kale stems removed and chopped
- ½ –1 teaspoon salt to taste
For serving:
- Cooked brown or white rice
- Fresh cilantro chopped
- Chopped peanuts
- Additional red chili flakes or hot sauce
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients for Cooking: Before starting, gather all your ingredients and equipment. Dice the onion finely so it cooks evenly, mince the garlic cloves, and grate fresh ginger. Peel and cut the sweet potato into small, uniform cubes to ensure they soften quickly and blend well into the soup. Remove tough stems from the kale and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. Measure out your spices and liquids for a smooth cooking process.
- Sauté Aromatics for Flavor Base: Place a large pot (at least 6 quarts) over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent and slightly golden. This process releases the sweet aroma of the onion and builds a flavor foundation. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring continuously for 1 minute to prevent burning while allowing their natural fragrance to infuse the oil.
- Cook Sweet Potatoes for Softness: Add the diced sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir thoroughly so they are coated with the aromatic oil mixture. Cook for 2–3 minutes while stirring gently to slightly soften their edges and enhance their natural sweetness. This step helps the sweet potatoes absorb flavor and ensures they cook evenly later in the simmering process.
- Add Spices for Depth: Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of ground cumin and ½ teaspoon of red chili flakes. Stir constantly for about 30 seconds to toast the spices. Toasting intensifies the flavor and releases essential oils, giving the soup its rich aroma and warm taste profile. Be careful not to burn the spices — the goal is a fragrant base that will enhance the soup.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste for Richness: Add the 6 ounces of tomato paste to the pot and stir well, coating the sweet potatoes and aromatics evenly. Allow the tomato paste to cook for 1–2 minutes. This develops a deep, slightly caramelized flavor and removes the raw tomato taste, giving the soup a richer body.
- Blend Liquids and Peanut Butter: Pour in 6 cups of vegetable broth gradually, stirring as you pour. This helps dissolve the tomato paste evenly and creates a smooth base for the soup. Add ¾ cup of creamy natural peanut butter and stir until fully incorporated. Peanut butter adds creamy texture, depth of flavor, and healthy fats to the soup, making it hearty and satisfying.
- Add Chickpeas and Simmer: Stir in the drained and rinsed chickpeas, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Increase heat slightly until the soup reaches a gentle boil. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes. During this time, the sweet potatoes will soften completely and the flavors will blend beautifully.
- Mash for Thickness: Once the sweet potatoes are tender, use a large wooden spoon to mash some of the sweet potatoes directly in the pot. This creates natural thickness and body for the soup without needing extra starch or cream. Stir well to integrate the mashed sweet potatoes while keeping some whole for texture.
- Add Kale for Freshness: Stir in the chopped kale, ensuring it is submerged in the broth. Cover the pot again and simmer for another 5–10 minutes, or until the kale is tender but still vibrant in color. This final cooking step keeps the greens flavorful while preserving their nutrients and texture.
- Season and Adjust Flavors: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with ½–1 teaspoon of salt or additional chili flakes if desired. The soup should balance creamy richness with a touch of spice and a hint of earthiness from the cumin and sweet potato.
- Serve with Perfect Accompaniments: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve over a scoop of brown or white rice for added heartiness. Top with freshly chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, and extra chili flakes or hot sauce if you like more spice. This combination adds texture, freshness, and extra flavor, making the dish visually appealing and satisfying.
- Store and Enjoy Later: Let any leftovers cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency if needed. This makes the soup a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.
Notes
- For extra convenience, use pre-minced garlic, grated ginger, or pre-chopped kale to cut down prep time.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less red chili flakes, or swap for fresh chili for an extra kick.
- Chickpeas can be substituted with other plant-based proteins like cooked lentils or vegan chicken for variation.
- Collard greens or spinach can replace kale for a different texture and flavor profile.
- For richer flavor, use homemade vegetable broth or high-quality store-bought broth such as Better Than Bouillon.
Chef’s Secrets: Enhancing Soup Flavors
The heart of this soup lies in its aromatic foundation.
Sautéing onion, garlic, and ginger slowly releases their natural sweetness and depth, creating a rich flavor base.
Toasting spices before adding liquids intensifies their aroma, giving the soup a warm, earthy profile.
Using creamy natural peanut butter ensures smooth consistency and adds healthy fats, while mashing part of the sweet potato during cooking creates a natural thickness without extra starch.
Lastly, letting the soup simmer gently allows flavors to blend beautifully, making every spoonful deeply satisfying.
Serving Suggestions: Delicious Pairing Ideas
This Spicy Peanut Soup is versatile and pairs beautifully with simple accompaniments.
Serve over fluffy brown rice or quinoa for a hearty, filling meal.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and chopped peanuts for a contrast of textures and fresh flavor.
For extra spice, drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle more red chili flakes.
A slice of crusty bread or warm flatbread complements the creamy texture perfectly, while a side salad adds a refreshing balance to the dish.
Storage Tips: Keeping Soup Fresh
To maintain the best flavor and texture, let the soup cool completely before storing.
Place in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
When reheating, warm gently on the stove or in a microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to adjust thickness as needed.
Stir well before serving to restore the smooth, creamy texture and vibrant flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better when made ahead, as the flavors deepen during refrigeration.
Simply prepare the soup, store it in airtight containers, and reheat gently before serving. It’s a great option for meal prep or busy weekday dinners.
2. Can I use peanut butter alternatives?
You can use almond butter, cashew butter, or sunflower seed butter if desired. However, peanut butter gives the soup its signature creamy texture and flavor.
If substituting, choose a smooth, unsweetened variety to maintain consistency and nutritional benefits.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as the vegetable broth and any additional ingredients you use are certified gluten-free. Serve with gluten-free rice or bread for a complete gluten-free meal.
4. How spicy is this soup?
The spice level is moderate, but it can be adjusted to your preference. Add more red chili flakes or fresh chili for a stronger kick, or reduce them for a milder version.
You can also add hot sauce at serving time for personalized heat.
5. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes. This soup freezes very well and retains its flavor and texture for up to 3 months.
Store in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently on the stove.
