The Roasted Sweet Potato Soup is a comforting and flavorful dinner option. Start by roasting peeled and cubed sweet potatoes and chopped shallots with olive oil, cumin, and thyme at 425°F for about 30 minutes. Once caramelized, blend the mixture with chicken or vegetable stock until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, adjusting the consistency as needed. Serve hot with an optional swirl of sour cream and a garnish of fresh herbs or chives. This versatile soup can be customized with additional ingredients like chickpeas or shredded chicken for a heartier meal. It pairs well with a green salad and crusty bread.
As a mother and an avid cook, I often find inspiration for new recipes in the simplest of places – like the lone sweet potato sitting in my pantry. It was on one such occasion that I stumbled upon the idea of creating a roasted sweet potato soup, a dish that has since become a staple in our household. This recipe, adapted from various sources and refined over the years, is not only a testament to the versatility of sweet potatoes but also a reflection of my passion for cooking and sharing delicious, easy-to-make meals with my family and readers.
Introduction
The sweet potato, often overlooked in favor of its more popular counterpart, the regular potato, is a treasure trove of flavor and nutrition. When roasted, sweet potatoes transform into a sweet and velvety base for a soup that is both comforting and healthy. My journey with this recipe began when I was cleaning out my pantry and found a few sweet potatoes that I had forgotten about. I decided to roast them, and as the aroma filled my kitchen, I knew I was onto something special.
This roasted sweet potato soup is a culmination of several adaptations, including a Donna Hay recipe that I tweaked to suit my family's taste preferences. The beauty of this soup lies in its ease of preparation and the depth of flavor that the roasted sweet potatoes and shallots bring to the table. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients and Preparation
Main Ingredients
- Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show, sweet potatoes are what give this soup its unique flavor and creamy texture. You will need about 2-3 large sweet potatoes or 4 medium ones.
- Shallots: Shallots add a mild onion flavor that complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes. You can use 1 large shallot or 2 smaller ones.
- Stock: You can use either chicken or vegetable stock, depending on your dietary preferences. Low-sodium options are recommended to allow for better control over the seasoning.
- Seasonings: Thyme and cumin are my go-to spices for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with other spices like chili powder, fresh ginger, or exotic spice mixes.
- Optional Ingredients:
- Sour cream or coconut milk for added creaminess
- Chickpeas, shredded chicken, or wilted greens for added substance
- Fresh parsley and red chili flakes for a burst of freshness and heat
Detailed Recipe Steps
Roasting the Sweet Potatoes and Shallots
Preheating your oven to the right temperature is crucial for bringing out the best flavors in your sweet potatoes. Here’s how you can do it:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cube the sweet potatoes into about 1-inch pieces. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Shallots: Peel and halve the shallots, then place them alongside the sweet potatoes.
- Season with Oil and Spices: Drizzle 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil over the sweet potatoes and shallots. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any desired spices (like thyme and cumin) evenly.
- Roast in the Oven: Roast the sweet potatoes and shallots in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and lightly caramelized. You may need to stir them halfway through the roasting time.
Puréeing the Ingredients
Once the sweet potatoes and shallots are roasted, it’s time to blend them into a smooth and creamy soup:
- Combine Roasted Ingredients with Stock: In a large blender or a pot with an immersion blender, combine the roasted sweet potatoes, shallots, and your chosen stock. If using a blender, make sure the ingredients are not boiling hot to avoid any accidents.
- Add Seasonings: Add any additional seasonings you prefer, such as a pinch of salt, a grind of black pepper, or a sprinkle of cumin and thyme.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend the mixture until it is smooth and creamy. If using an immersion blender, blend directly in the pot. If using a regular blender, blend in batches and return the soup to the pot.
Finishing the Soup
The final touches can make a significant difference in the flavor and texture of your soup:
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices to taste.
- Add a Swirl of Creaminess (Optional): For an extra creamy touch, swirl in some sour cream or coconut milk. This adds a rich and velvety texture to the soup.
Adaptability and Variations
One of the best things about this roasted sweet potato soup is its adaptability. Here are some variations you can try to keep the recipe fresh and exciting:
Spice Variations
- Chili Powder and Cumin: Add a spicy kick with chili powder and cumin for a Southwestern flair.
- Fresh Ginger: Grate some fresh ginger and sauté it with the garlic for an Asian-inspired flavor.
- Exotic Spice Mixes: Use ras el hanout or harissa to give your soup a Middle Eastern or North African twist.
Adding Substantial Ingredients
- Chickpeas: Add cooked chickpeas for a protein boost and extra texture.
- Shredded Chicken: Mix in some shredded chicken for a heartier meal.
- Wilted Greens: Stir in some wilted spinach or kale for an added nutritional punch.
- Beans, Nuts, or Seeds: Experiment with adding beans, nuts, or seeds for different textures and flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This roasted sweet potato soup is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit different occasions.
As a Light Meal
- Serve the soup on its own as a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
- Pair it with a green salad and some crusty bread for dipping into the soup.
With Main Courses
- Serve the soup alongside main courses like roast chicken, seared pork chops, or other proteins.
- It also pairs well with vegetarian options like grilled tofu or tempeh.
Storage and Reheating
One of the conveniences of this soup is its ease of storage and reheating.
Fridge Storage
- The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- When reheating, simply warm the soup over low heat in a saucepan or reheat it in the microwave.
Freezing
- Portion the soup into freezer containers or bags and freeze for up to three months.
- To reheat frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the fridge or warm it over low heat in a saucepan. If the soup appears separated after reheating, whisk or blend it briefly to restore its smooth texture.
Key Points and Benefits
Ease of Preparation
This roasted sweet potato soup is incredibly easy to prepare. The roasting process allows the sweet potatoes to develop their natural sweetness without much effort from your end. The entire recipe can be ready in about an hour, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
Flavor Profile
The roasted sweet potatoes and shallots give this soup a deep, sweet flavor that is enhanced by the addition of thyme and cumin. The optional swirl of sour cream or coconut milk adds a creamy texture that complements the flavors beautifully.
Versatility
The adaptability of this recipe is one of its greatest strengths. Whether you are looking to add some heat with chili flakes, freshness with parsley, or substance with chickpeas, this soup can be tailored to your taste preferences.
Storage Convenience
The convenience of storing this soup in the fridge or freezer makes it a great option for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch and enjoy it over several days or freeze it for later use.
Enjoying the Variations
Roasted Sweet Potato and Carrot Soup
To add some extra color and flavor, you can include carrots in the roasting process. Simply peel and chop the carrots into similar-sized pieces as the sweet potatoes and roast them together. This adds a lovely orange hue and a bit of earthy sweetness to the soup.
Sweet Potato and Red Bell Pepper Soup
Red bell peppers bring a vibrant red color and a slightly sweet, smoky flavor when roasted. Simply core and seed the bell peppers, chop them into large pieces, and roast them alongside the sweet potatoes and shallots.
Vegan Sweet Potato Soup
For a vegan version, use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and skip the sour cream or use a vegan alternative like coconut cream. You can also add other vegan-friendly ingredients like chickpeas or wilted kale.
Sweet Potato Soup with Orange and Pistachio Salsa
This variation adds a tangy and refreshing twist to the soup. Roast the sweet potatoes as usual, then blend them with some orange juice and zest. Serve the soup with a salsa made from crushed pistachios, orange zest, scallions, mint, and olive oil for a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.
Easy Sweet Potato Soup Recipe
The essence of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By using a sheet pan to roast the sweet potatoes, shallots, and garlic, you can minimize your time in the kitchen. Simply toss the ingredients with oil, salt, and pepper, roast them, and then blend them with stock and your choice of seasonings.
Sweet Potato and Shallot Soup
This is the core version of the recipe, focusing on the sweet potatoes and shallots as the primary ingredients. It's a great base that you can always build upon with other ingredients.
Roasted Sweet Potato and Garlic Soup
Roasted garlic adds a deep, rich flavor to the soup. Simply slice the top off a garlic bulb, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast it alongside the sweet potatoes. Squeeze the garlic pulp into the blender for an intense garlic flavor.
Sweet Potato Soup with Thyme and Cumin
Thyme and cumin are classic spices that pair well with sweet potatoes. Add them during the roasting process or when blending the soup for an aromatic and slightly spicy flavor.
Sweet Potato and Chickpea Soup
Adding chickpeas makes the soup more substantial and protein-rich. Simply blend the roasted sweet potatoes with chickpeas, stock, and your chosen spices for a filling meal.
Sweet Potato Soup with Coconut Milk and Oat Cream
For a creamy and dairy-free version, use coconut milk and oat cream. These ingredients add a rich texture without the need for dairy products.
Sweet Potato Soup with Roasted Vegetables
Roasting a variety of vegetables like sweet potatoes, shallots, garlic, and red bell peppers creates a soup that is loaded with flavor and nutrients. Simply adjust the seasoning and spices according to the vegetables you add.
Sweet Potato Soup for Gut Health
Sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, which makes them excellent for gut health. Adding other gut-friendly ingredients like ginger and coconut milk can enhance the soup's health benefits.
Sweet Potato Soup with Fresh Parsley and Red Chili Flakes
For a fresh and spicy twist, add some chopped fresh parsley and red chili flakes to the soup. This adds a bright, herbaceous flavor and a touch of heat.
Sweet Potato Soup with Crusty Bread
Serving the soup with crusty bread is a classic combination. The bread's crunch and the soup's creaminess make for a satisfying meal.
Sweet Potato Soup for a Light Meal
This soup is perfect as a light meal due to its balanced flavor and nutritious ingredients. It's filling enough to satisfy your hunger but light enough to keep you feeling fresh.
Sweet Potato Soup with Smoky Notes
Using smoked paprika or roasting the sweet potatoes with a drizzle of maple syrup can add smoky notes to the soup. This gives the soup a deep, caramelized flavor that is hard to resist.
Sweet Potato Soup for Chilly Evenings
There's nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of roasted sweet potato soup on a chilly evening. The combination of roasted vegetables and creamy stock makes it the perfect comfort food.
Final Thoughts on Roasted Sweet Potato Soup
Roasted sweet potato soup is more than just a meal; it's an experience. The process of roasting the sweet potatoes and shallots fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that sets the tone for a comforting meal. Whether you're looking for a light lunch, a substantial dinner, or a versatile recipe to adapt to your taste, this soup has something to offer.
As a mother and a cook, I find joy in sharing recipes that not only taste great but also bring people together. This roasted sweet potato soup has become a staple in our household, and I hope it will do the same for yours. So go ahead, give it a try, and don't be afraid to experiment with the many variations that this recipe has to offer. Happy cooking
Summary
A comforting roasted sweet potato soup with caramelized sweet potatoes, shallots, and a spice blend that creates a rich and creamy texture. Perfect for dinner and easy to customize.