– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 (14 oz) can of diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup smooth peanut butter (or crunchy for texture)
– 1 tablespoon red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
– Crushed peanuts for garnish (optional)
Creating the delicious African Peanut Soup is straightforward. Follow these steps carefully:
1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots and chopped bell pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until they start to soften.
3. Blend in Tomatoes and Paste: Add the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, red curry paste, cumin, and paprika. Mix well and cook for an additional 3 minutes.
4. Incorporate Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Stir in Peanut Butter: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and stir in the peanut butter until fully combined.
6. Simmer the Soup: Allow the soup to simmer for 15-20 minutes, letting the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally.
7. Add Beans and Greens: Mix in the black beans and spinach (or kale), cooking for another 5 minutes.
8. Season the Soup: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as desired.
9. Finish with Lime Juice: Remove from heat and stir in lime juice for a refreshing finish.
10. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts, if desired.
By following these steps, you’ll have a pot full of African Peanut Soup that will sure to impress with its depth of flavor and heartiness!