This Curried Sweet Potato Soup is a warm and cozy dish bursting with flavor! It’s made with creamy sweet potatoes and fragrant spices that tickle your taste buds.
Perfect for chilly days when you want something comforting! I love to enjoy it with a crusty piece of bread—soup and bread are the best duo, right?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This is my go-to for sautéing because it adds nice flavor. You can also use avocado oil or coconut oil for a different taste, or if you’re looking for a higher smoke point.
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the soup. If sweet potatoes aren’t available, try using butternut squash or regular potatoes for a slightly different texture and taste.
Curry Powder: I recommend using a good quality curry powder for the best flavor. If you like a bit more heat, try adding garam masala or turmeric along with it. Feel free to use curry paste if that’s what you have on hand!
Coconut Milk: This adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness. If you’re looking for a lighter version, use almond or cashew milk instead, though it will change the flavor a bit.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Smooth and Creamy?
Blending the soup smoothly is key for a comforting texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Allow the soup to cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering.
- If using a blender, fill it only halfway and cover with a kitchen towel. This prevents steam buildup.
- For smoother results, blend in smaller batches or use an immersion blender directly in the pot.
After blending, if you find the soup too thick, feel free to add a bit more broth or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency.
Curried Sweet Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 to 2 tablespoons curry powder (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup coconut milk (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Crispy fried shallots or onions (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, making a total of around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight meal but delicious enough for a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This is what builds a lovely base of flavor!
2. Add Garlic and Ginger:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and ginger. Allow them to cook for another 1-2 minutes, just until they’re fragrant and you can smell that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen.
3. Season with Spices:
Now it’s time to add the spices! Sprinkle in the curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it). Stir well to coat the onions and release all those delicious spice aromas for about a minute.
4. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Add the diced sweet potatoes and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the sweet potatoes are very tender—this should take about 20 minutes.
5. Blend the Soup:
Using an immersion blender, puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have one, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender, blending until it’s creamy and velvety.
6. Add Coconut Milk:
Stir in the coconut milk at this stage, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Warm the soup gently, being careful not to let it boil again.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with a swirl of coconut milk, a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro, and crispy fried shallots or onions if you like a little crunch. Enjoy this warm, comforting bowl of Curried Sweet Potato Soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! If sweet potatoes aren’t available, butternut squash or regular potatoes can be great substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of potato you use.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder soup, start with just 1 tablespoon of curry powder and omit the cayenne pepper. You can always add more spices later as you taste! If you like it spicier, feel free to increase the curry powder or cayenne pepper according to your preferences.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
This recipe is already vegan, as it uses vegetable broth and coconut milk. Just double-check any garnishes like crispy fried shallots or onions if you want to ensure they fit your dietary needs!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. If the soup thickens in the fridge, simply add a splash of veggie broth or water to loosen it up while reheating.