Introduction
Sweet Potato Soup is a delicious and nourishing dish perfect for any season. Rich in flavors and creamy in texture, this soup showcases the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes combined with the depth of red onions and aromatic ginger. Topped with roasted cauliflower and a drizzle of infused oil, it is sure to delight your taste buds.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 red onion, cut into large chunks or slices
3 sweet potatoes, cut into chunks (about 6 cups)
2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
6 cups vegetable broth
1/2 inch knob of fresh ginger
1/2 cup macadamia nuts or cashews
Toppings:
4–6 cups cauliflower florets
A small bundle of chives, chopped
Lemon wedges
A drizzle of infused oil (e.g., spicy chili oil)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
About 1 hour
Total Time
1 hour 15 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
This sweet potato soup is not only comforting but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your preferred toppings and infused oils. Enjoy this wholesome dish as a main course or as an appetizer in your next gathering!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit.
Roast Soup Vegetables
Place the sweet potatoes and red onion on a sheet pan. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of oil and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt. Roast in the oven for 30-45 minutes, until golden brown and softened.
Roast Cauliflower
On a separate sheet pan, toss the cauliflower florets with 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 teaspoon of salt. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes, placing the pan underneath the sweet potatoes and onions.
Crumble Cauliflower
After roasting, break up the cauliflower into smaller bits using the back of a wooden spoon or spatula. Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes to achieve extra browning.
Blend Soup
Allow the roasted sweet potatoes and onions to cool slightly. Working in batches, transfer them to a blender. Add the vegetable broth, fresh ginger, and macadamia nuts or cashews. Puree until very smooth.
Serve
Taste the soup and adjust for salt as needed. Serve topped with the roasted cauliflower crumbles, chopped chives, a drizzle of infused oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Notes
Oven Temperature
Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the vegetables inside for even cooking.
Vegetable Broth
Use low-sodium vegetable broth if monitoring sodium intake.
Nut Choices
If allergic to macadamia nuts or cashews, substitute with another nut or seed that is safe.
Texture Preference
For a chunkier texture, blend the soup less until you reach the desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
The soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Cook techniques
Roasting Vegetables
Roasting is a method that enhances the natural sweetness and flavor of vegetables. For the sweet potato soup, quickly toss the sweet potatoes and red onions in oil and salt before placing them in a preheated oven. This technique allows for caramelization, creating a rich and savory base for the soup.
Blending Ingredients
Blending is essential for achieving a smooth and creamy texture in soups. After roasting, transfer the sweet potatoes, red onions, vegetable broth, ginger, and nuts to a blender. Blend until fully combined and silky, ensuring a delightful mouthfeel.
Crumbling Cauliflower
Crumbling is a technique used to create texture in dishes. Once the cauliflower has roasted and gained some color, break it into smaller pieces using a wooden spoon or spatula. This not only creates visual interest but also enhances the eating experience when added as a topping.
Adjusting Seasoning
Tasting and adjusting seasoning is crucial in cooking. After blending the soup, taste it and add salt or any other seasoning as needed. This step ensures that the final dish is well-balanced and flavorful.
Garnishing
Garnishing enhances the presentation and flavor profile of the dish. Top the soup with roasted cauliflower crumbles, chopped chives, infused oil, and a squeeze of lemon. These additions provide color, freshness, and additional layers of flavor.
FAQ
Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, regular potatoes can be used, but the flavor and sweetness will differ. Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and a creamy texture.
What can I substitute for macadamia nuts or cashews?
You can substitute with other nuts such as almonds or walnuts, or use seeds like sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Is there a way to make this soup creamier without nuts?
You can add coconut milk or a splash of dairy (like heavy cream or milk) after blending for added creaminess.
Can this soup be frozen for later use?
Yes, the soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
What if I don’t have vegetable broth?
If vegetable broth is unavailable, you can use water with added seasonings or homemade broth for more flavor.
Conclusion
The Sweet Potato Soup, enriched with roasted vegetables, creates a hearty and wholesome dish that’s perfect for any season. The combination of sweet potatoes, ginger, and nut-based creaminess from macadamia nuts or cashews offers a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and nutritious. Topped with crispy roasted cauliflower, chives, and a hint of lemon, this soup is sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoying it with a drizzle of infused oil adds an extra layer of sophistication, making it a truly satisfying meal.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili
Combine sweet potatoes with black beans, diced tomatoes, and spices for a hearty chili. Top with avocado and cilantro for added freshness.
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes
Bake sweet potatoes and stuff them with a mixture of sautéed spinach, quinoa, and feta cheese. Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for extra flavor.
Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad
Toss roasted sweet potato chunks with chickpeas, arugula, and a tahini dressing for a nutritious salad that can be served warm or cold.
Sweet Potato Curries
Prepare a comforting curry by simmering sweet potatoes with coconut milk, curry paste, and spinach. Serve with rice or naan for a complete meal.
Sweet Potato Mash
Boil sweet potatoes until tender, then mash with garlic, olive oil, and a splash of lemon juice for a creamy and flavorful side dish.
Sweet Potato Fries
Slice sweet potatoes into fries, toss with olive oil and your choice of seasonings, then bake until crispy for a healthier alternative to traditional fries.
