Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

There’s something special about a warm bowl of sweet potato soup on a chilly day. With its creamy texture and slightly sweet, savory flavors, this soup is the perfect comforting meal for fall and winter. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients from the sweet potatoes, making it a healthy option to serve to your family.

What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. Using only a few basic ingredients like sweet potatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, you can whip up a flavorful and satisfying dish in under an hour. To make it even better, this soup is naturally gluten-free and vegan, meaning it can cater to a variety of dietary needs. If you’re looking to enhance the creaminess without using dairy, this guide on using coconut milk in soups provides helpful tips.

This sweet potato soup is easy to customize and adapt based on your taste preferences. From adding spice to incorporating extra vegetables, there are endless ways to make it your own. Plus, it stores well, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping or freezing for future meals. If you want to learn how to store and reheat soups for later without losing their texture and flavor, check out these tips on storing soups.

Key Ingredients for Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

To make this sweet potato soup recipe, you’ll need a handful of pantry staples and fresh produce. Each ingredient plays a key role in developing the soup’s rich, balanced flavor. These ingredients are not only essential but also flexible enough to be swapped out depending on what you have on hand.

Sweet Potatoes

The star of the soup. Sweet potatoes provide natural sweetness and a creamy texture when blended. They’re also loaded with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this soup both delicious and nutritious.

Apple

Adding an apple to the mix brings a subtle sweetness that enhances the natural flavors of the sweet potato.

Onion and Garlic

These aromatics form the flavorful base of the soup.

Coriander and Ginger

Ground coriander adds a hint of citrus and spice, while fresh ginger gives the soup warmth and a bit of a zing.

Smoked Paprika

Smoked paprika adds depth and a slightly smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the potatoes.

Coconut Milk

Coconut milk provides creaminess without adding dairy, making this soup vegan-friendly.

Apple Cider Vinegar

A touch of acidity from apple cider vinegar helps to balance the sweetness of the sweet potatoes and apple.

Vegetable Broth

Vegetable broth is the liquid base that ties the flavors together. You can use store-bought broth or make your own.

Salt and Pepper

Essential for seasoning the soup and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.

Optional garnishes include:

Pepitas: Add crunch to the smooth soup.
Fresh Cilantro: Adds a pop of color and brightness to the dish.
Red Pepper Flakes: For a touch of heat that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly, perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week. Follow these easy steps to make the best sweet potato soup you’ve ever tasted.

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

Start by prepping all your vegetables and ingredients.

Peel and chop the sweet potatoes: Use a vegetable peeler to peel 3-4 medium sweet potatoes. Cut them into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Peel and chop the apple: Use one medium apple (preferably Granny Smith) for a bit of natural sweetness. Peel and chop it into small cubes.
Chop the onion: Dice one medium onion finely. It will cook down and add flavor without overpowering the soup.
Mince the garlic: Mince 2-3 cloves of garlic. Garlic adds a depth of flavor that complements the sweetness of the soup.
Grate the ginger: Use fresh ginger for the best flavor. Grate about 1 teaspoon of ginger and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Sautéing the onions, garlic, and spices helps to build the flavor of the soup.

Heat olive oil: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
Sauté the onions: Add the diced onion with a pinch of salt and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.
Add garlic, ginger, coriander, and smoked paprika: Stir in the minced garlic, grated ginger, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika. Cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Sweet Potatoes and Apple

Now, it’s time to add the core ingredients that make this soup hearty and flavorful.

Add the sweet potatoes and apple: Stir in the chopped sweet potatoes and apple. Allow the mixture to cook for 8-10 minutes, giving the ingredients a chance to soften slightly and absorb the spices.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Simmer

Next, you’ll add the liquids that will help bring the soup together.

Pour in vegetable broth and coconut milk: Add 4 cups of vegetable broth and one 13.5-ounce can of full-fat coconut milk. The coconut milk adds richness and makes the soup velvety smooth.
Add apple cider vinegar: Stir in 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar for brightness.
Bring to a boil: Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are soft and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 5: Blend the Soup

Once the sweet potatoes are tender, it’s time to blend the soup into a creamy, smooth texture.

Cool the soup slightly: Before blending, allow the soup to cool for a few minutes to prevent steam buildup.
Blend until smooth: Use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot, or transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the soup is too thick, add more vegetable broth until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 6: Adjust Seasonings and Serve

The final step is to season the soup and prepare it for serving.

Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed. If the soup tastes too sweet, add an extra splash of apple cider vinegar or lime juice to balance the flavors.
Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with optional garnishes like pepitas, fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of coconut milk.

Tips for the Best Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

To make your sweet potato soup even better, here are a few tips and tricks that can truly elevate the dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients

Whenever possible, use fresh sweet potatoes, garlic, and ginger. Fresh ingredients will result in the best flavor, as they are more vibrant and aromatic. While you can use pre-minced garlic or dried ginger in a pinch, the flavor won’t be as robust, and the overall taste may be slightly muted.

Balance the Sweetness

Since sweet potatoes and apples naturally add sweetness to the soup, balancing these flavors is key. To prevent the soup from becoming overly rich or sweet, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or lime juice. These acidic elements help to balance the flavors and enhance the overall taste.

Roast the Sweet Potatoes

For a deeper, more caramelized flavor, roasting the sweet potatoes before adding them to the soup is a fantastic option. Simply toss the chopped sweet potatoes in olive oil, and then roast them at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until tender and slightly browned. This process brings out a richer, sweeter flavor that can add complexity to the soup.

Adjust the Consistency

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use less broth and simmer the soup uncovered for the last 10 minutes, allowing some of the liquid to evaporate. On the other hand, if you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more broth as you blend until you reach the desired consistency.

Variations of Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

There are countless ways to customize your sweet potato soup to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Below are a few delicious variations you can easily try:

Spicy Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

For those who enjoy a little kick, you can try adding red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a bit of your favorite hot sauce. This variation offers a spicy contrast that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of the potatoes.

How to do it: Simply add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes while sautéing the aromatics. Alternatively, stir in a tablespoon of hot sauce right before serving to give it some heat.

Sweet Potato and Carrot Soup Recipe

Carrots not only complement the sweetness of the potatoes but also add extra nutrients, making this variation a bit heartier and more nutritious.

How to do it: Add 2-3 chopped carrots to the pot along with the sweet potatoes. Then, cook the vegetables until they are tender, and blend as usual for a smooth, creamy texture.

Curried Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

For a bold and flavorful twist, try adding curry powder or paste to your soup. This variation introduces a warm, spiced flavor that’s perfect for those who enjoy exotic spices.

How to do it: Stir in 1 tablespoon of curry powder or 2 tablespoons of Thai curry paste with the garlic and ginger. You can also add a splash of coconut cream for extra richness and depth.

Thai-Inspired Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a Thai-inspired version, adding lime juice, fish sauce (optional for non-vegans), and Thai red curry paste will create a vibrant, zesty dish.

How to do it: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of Thai red curry paste along with 1 tablespoon of lime juice. For an extra burst of flavor, garnish the soup with fresh basil or cilantro to give it that Thai twist.

Sweet Potato and Lentil Soup Recipe

For a heartier meal, you can add red lentils, which provide extra protein and fiber, making the soup more filling and substantial.

How to do it: Stir in ½ cup of red lentils along with the sweet potatoes and apple. As the soup simmers, the lentils will thicken it and add more texture, while also increasing the nutritional content.

Serving Suggestions for Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

This creamy sweet potato soup is already rich and flavorful on its own, but you can elevate it even further with a few creative serving ideas:

Toppings

Swirl of Coconut Milk: Not only does it add a beautiful visual contrast, but it also enhances the creaminess.
Toasted Pepitas or Sunflower Seeds: These provide a nice crunchy texture that contrasts perfectly with the smooth soup.
Fresh Herbs: Adding cilantro, parsley, or basil will bring both freshness and a vibrant pop of color to the dish.
Red Pepper Flakes: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes not only adds a spicy contrast but also balances the sweetness of the soup.

Side Dishes

Crusty Bread: Serving the soup with a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for dipping and complements the creamy texture of the soup.
Simple Kale Salad: A light kale salad with lemon vinaigrette, for example, is the perfect complement to the rich, creamy soup, adding balance to the meal.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or butternut squash, not only add texture but also introduce additional layers of flavor to the meal.

Bread Bowls

For a fun and hearty presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. The bread will soak up the creamy broth, making for a filling and satisfying dish that turns the meal into something special.

Storing and Freezing Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

One of the best things about this sweet potato soup recipe is how well it stores and freezes. This makes it ideal for meal prep or saving leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Let the soup cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.

Freezing

Sweet potato soup freezes beautifully, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch! Divide the soup into individual portions and store it in freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the containers with the date.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it directly from frozen on the stovetop over low heat. Add a little water or broth to adjust the consistency if the soup has thickened during storage.

Nutritional Information About Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

This sweet potato soup is not only delicious but also highly nutritious. Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content per serving:

Calories: 250-300
Fat: 15 grams (mainly from coconut milk)
Carbohydrates: 30 grams (primarily from sweet potatoes and apple)
Protein: 4 grams
Fiber: 5 grams
Vitamins: High in vitamins A and C due to the sweet potatoes.

Additionally, sweet potatoes are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. As a result, this soup is particularly beneficial for maintaining healthy skin and vision. Furthermore, the high fiber content makes the soup both filling and good for digestive health. Not to mention, the healthy fats from the coconut milk contribute to keeping you satisfied longer. Since this soup is naturally gluten-free and vegan, it’s suitable for a variety of dietary needs.

FAQs About Sweet Potato Soup Recipe

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this sweet potato soup can easily be made ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, and it can be reheated whenever you’re ready to serve it. In fact, the flavors may even develop more, making the soup taste even better after sitting for a day or two.

Can I substitute coconut milk with another type of milk?

Absolutely! You can use heavy cream, almond milk, or even oat milk as substitutes for coconut milk. Each option will slightly change the flavor and texture of the soup; however, it will still be delicious. For example, heavy cream will make the soup richer, while almond milk will give it a slightly nuttier taste.

How can I make the soup spicier?

To add a kick to your sweet potato soup, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Additionally, you could stir in some diced jalapeños or a bit of chili powder to enhance the heat further.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! Sweet potato soup freezes very well. Store it in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the soup in the fridge or reheat it directly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?

If the soup is too thin, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, blending in more cooked sweet potatoes will naturally thicken it. You can also add a small amount of cornstarch or flour slurry if needed, though this step is typically unnecessary.

Conclusion

Sweet potato soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy fall dinner or preparing it for a family gathering, this soup is sure to please. With its nutritious ingredients and endless ways to customize, you’ll never get bored of this delicious dish.

Plus, the fact that it stores well means you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. It’s perfect for meal prep, and it freezes beautifully for those days when you need a quick and hearty meal. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the suggested variations, you’re bound to love this healthy and flavorful sweet potato soup.

So why not try this easy recipe today? Warm up with a bowl of creamy goodness and experiment with toppings, variations, and side dishes to make it truly your own. This recipe is a hit for any occasion—whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, sweet potato soup is a dish that everyone can enjoy!