This Vegan Sweet Potato Soup is creamy, comforting, and full of flavor! Made with sweet potatoes, coconut milk, and a hint of spice, it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
Getting cozy with a big bowl of this soup is my favorite! Pair it with some crusty bread, and it’s the perfect meal to share or enjoy all by yourself. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of the show! Their natural sweetness adds the perfect base. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, butternut squash is a great substitute, giving a similar sweetness and texture.
Onion and Garlic: I love using yellow onion for its mild flavor. You can swap it for shallots or even red onion if you prefer a bit more bite. For garlic enthusiasts, feel free to add more for extra punch!
Coconut Milk: This ingredient adds creaminess. If you’re not a fan, try using cashew cream or almond milk, but keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly. I think the coconut milk really complements the sweet potatoes well!
Spices: Ground cumin, smoked paprika, and ground coriander add depth. If you have curry powder, that could work too for a different flavor profile. Adjust based on what you have at home!
How Do I Make Perfectly Smooth Soup?
Creating that velvety texture is key for a great sweet potato soup. Here’s how to ensure your soup is well-blended:
- After simmering, let the soup cool slightly before blending to avoid splattering.
- If using a regular blender, blend in small batches and hold the lid down tightly to prevent spills.
- Consider using an immersion blender directly in the pot—it’s easy and clean up is a breeze!
And remember, blending until completely smooth is worth the extra effort for that luxurious mouthfeel!
Vegan Sweet Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened coconut milk (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Crusty bread or vegan croutons
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Optional: dried chili flakes or chopped dried chili for a little heat
Time Needed:
This delicious Vegan Sweet Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be looking at around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add in the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. This will give your soup a wonderful base flavor.
2. Add the Garlic and Spices:
Next, stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and ground coriander. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and create an enticing aroma.
3. Cook the Sweet Potatoes:
Now, add the cubed sweet potatoes to your pot. Give everything a good stir to make sure the potatoes get coated with the lovely spice mix.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until the sweet potatoes are very tender, which should take about 20 minutes.
5. Blend It Smooth:
Using an immersion blender, purée the soup directly in the pot until it’s creamy and smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches and blend until fully smooth.
6. Add Coconut Milk and Season:
Once blended, stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Heat the soup through but be careful not to boil it again.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Pour your delicious soup into bowls and drizzle a bit of extra coconut milk on top. Add some vegan croutons or crusty bread cubes, sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves, and if you like a bit of heat, add some dried chili flakes.
8. Enjoy!
Dig into your warm and comforting vegan sweet potato soup. It’s perfect for a chilly day or whenever you crave something hearty and satisfying!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Sweet Potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute regular potatoes, but keep in mind that the flavor will be different. Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and creaminess. If you choose regular potatoes, you might want to adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavor.
Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like more heat, add extra dried chili flakes, fresh jalapeño, or cayenne pepper along with the spices. You can adjust this to your spice preference as you go along!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to the freezer.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just ensure they are cooked until tender before blending for a smooth consistency.