Last Updated on October 12, 2025 by Chef Josie
Rich, creamy, and full of bold flavor, this Peanut Butter Soup is a heartwarming dish inspired by traditional West African cooking. It blends nutty peanut butter with tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and warm spices for a deeply satisfying, protein-packed meal.
Perfect for chilly nights, this one-pot stovetop recipe brings global flair to your kitchen while remaining simple and accessible. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves unique Soup Recipes that combine comfort and nourishment.
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Table of Contents
Peanut Butter Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A creamy and flavorful Peanut Butter Soup made with sweet potatoes, kale, and warm spices. Inspired by African cuisine, it’s hearty, nourishing, and easy to make.
Ingredients
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tbsp olive oil
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1 small onion, chopped
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
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1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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4 cups vegetable broth
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¾ cup natural peanut butter
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp cumin
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1 tsp chili powder or cayenne (optional)
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2 cups chopped kale or spinach
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Juice of ½ lime
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: chopped peanuts and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion for 4–5 minutes, then add garlic and ginger.
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Stir in sweet potato, bell pepper, tomatoes, broth, paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Simmer 15–20 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
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Whisk peanut butter with ½ cup warm broth until smooth, then stir into soup. Simmer 10 minutes.
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Add kale or spinach and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted.
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Stir in lime juice, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with peanuts and cilantro.
Notes
Use natural peanut butter for best texture.
Add coconut milk for extra creaminess.
Adjust spice to taste or omit chili powder for mild flavor.
Store up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: African
Nutrition
- Calories: 390 kcal per serving
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture: Thanks to natural peanut butter.
- Plant-based and nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
- Perfectly spiced: Balanced flavors with just the right heat.
- One-pot simplicity: Easy cleanup and minimal prep.
- Ideal for fall and winter: A standout among Winter Soup Recipes and Fall Soups and Stews.
Ingredient Breakdown
1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing vegetables and building flavor.
1 small onion, chopped – Adds a savory base.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Enhances depth of flavor.
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger – Adds brightness and warmth.
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed – Adds sweetness and body.
1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds color and mild flavor.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Brings acidity and balance.
4 cups vegetable broth – The liquid base for the soup.
¾ cup natural peanut butter (smooth or crunchy) – The key to creaminess and richness.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a touch of smokiness.
½ teaspoon cumin – Deepens the flavor.
1 teaspoon chili powder or cayenne (optional) – Adds heat.
2 cups chopped kale or spinach – Provides nutrients and texture.
Salt and black pepper to taste
Juice of ½ lime – Adds a touch of brightness before serving.
Optional toppings: Chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of coconut milk.
Substitutions
- Replace sweet potatoes with butternut squash.
- Use almond butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Swap kale for collard greens or spinach.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook for 4–5 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking another 30 seconds until fragrant. - Add vegetables and broth
Stir in sweet potato, bell pepper, tomatoes, broth, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili powder. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15–20 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender. - Add peanut butter
In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter and ½ cup warm broth until smooth. Stir this mixture into the pot. Simmer for 10 more minutes, stirring occasionally. - Add greens
Stir in kale or spinach and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted. - Finish and serve
Add lime juice and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with chopped peanuts and cilantro.
Notes and Top Tips
- Use natural peanut butter without added sugar or oil.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of coconut milk.
- Balance flavors with lime juice or a touch of honey if desired.
- The soup thickens as it sits; add broth or water to thin when reheating.
- To make it spicy, increase chili powder or add diced jalapeño.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Serve with: Rice, flatbread, or crusty bread for a full meal.
- Add protein: Chickpeas or shredded chicken for heartiness.
- Make it creamy: Stir in coconut milk or cashew cream.
- Garnish: Chopped roasted peanuts, cilantro, or a drizzle of olive oil.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely before freezing for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Why You’ll Make It Again
This Peanut Butter Soup | Creamy African-Inspired Comfort Recipe is both nourishing and unforgettable. Its creamy texture, bold flavor, and wholesome ingredients make it one of the most unique Soup Recipes you’ll ever try. It’s a delicious, comforting option that feels indulgent yet entirely plant-based.
FAQs
Is Peanut Butter Soup really made with peanut butter?
Yes, natural peanut butter gives the soup its creamy consistency and nutty flavor.
Can I make it spicy or mild?
Absolutely. Adjust the chili powder or omit it entirely for a mild soup.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes. It adds texture and extra peanut flavor.
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