Chadian Peanut Soup

Chadian Peanut Soup Recipe - Chicken, Tomatoes, Carrots, Onions

Region / culture: Chad | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chadian Peanut Soup is a delicious and hearty soup that is popular in Chad, a country located in Central Africa. This soup is known for its rich and creamy texture, as well as its unique combination of flavors.

History

Chadian Peanut Soup has been a staple in Chadian cuisine for generations. Peanuts are a common ingredient in African cooking, and this soup is a perfect example of how they can be used to create a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

4 chicken bouillon cubes or vegetable stock
1 (14.5 oz (411 g)) can of stewed tomatoes
1 cup of chopped carrots
2 cups of chopped onions
1 cup of sliced scallions
0.75 cup of creamy peanut butter
1 cup of milk
0.25 cup of instant mashed potatoes
1 dash of chili powder or cayenne, and salt to taste

How to prepare

Boil 4 cups of water in a 3 qt (2.84 liter) saucepan and dissolve chicken cubes.
Add tomatoes, carrots, onions, and scallions.
Reduce heat and simmer for 5–6 minutes until carrots are tender.
Mix in peanut butter and stir until well blended, then add milk, instant potatoes, and seasonings.
Simmer until the sauce thickens.

Variations

Add diced chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the peanut butter well before adding it to the soup to ensure a smooth consistency.

- Adjust the amount of salt to taste, as the saltiness of the soup can vary depending on the brand of peanut butter used.

- For a thicker soup, you can add more instant mashed potatoes or simmer the soup for a longer period of time.

Serving Suggestions

Chadian Peanut Soup can be served as a main dish with a side of rice or crusty bread. It can also be topped with chopped peanuts or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering

- Boiling

Ingredient Substitutions

Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter.

- Coconut milk can be used instead of regular milk for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Chadian Peanut Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chadian Peanut Soup in a bowl garnished with a drizzle of peanut butter and a sprinkle of chopped scallions for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chadian Peanut Soup pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. It also goes well with a glass of chilled white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chadian Peanut Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

300

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 25g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 8g

Fats

- Total Fat: 18g

- Saturated Fat: 4g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 10g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Calcium: 10%

- Iron: 15%

Alergens

Contains peanuts and milk

Summary

Chadian Peanut Soup is a nutritious dish that is rich in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Summary

Chadian Peanut Soup is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its creamy texture and rich peanut flavor, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Chadian Peanut Soup. It was many years ago, during my travels through Africa, that I had the pleasure of tasting this delicious and comforting dish. The rich flavors of peanuts, tomatoes, and spices blended together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that warmed both my body and soul.

I was visiting a small village in Chad, where I had the opportunity to partake in a traditional meal prepared by the local women. As I sat with them, watching and learning their techniques, I was struck by the simplicity and beauty of their cooking. Each ingredient was carefully selected and prepared with love and attention to detail.

The key to this soup, I learned, was the use of fresh, roasted peanuts. The women would spend hours shelling and grinding the peanuts by hand, creating a smooth and creamy paste that formed the base of the soup. The addition of fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices added depth and complexity to the dish.

I watched as the women worked together, each one adding their own unique touch to the soup. Some preferred to use more chili peppers for heat, while others added extra garlic for a bold flavor. It was a collaborative effort, with each woman contributing her own expertise to create a dish that was greater than the sum of its parts.

As the soup simmered over an open fire, the rich aroma filled the air, tantalizing my senses and making my mouth water in anticipation. When it was finally ready, I eagerly dipped my spoon into the steaming bowl and took my first taste. The flavors exploded on my tongue, a perfect balance of savory, nutty, and spicy that left me craving more.

I knew that I had to learn how to make this soup for myself. I spent the next few days shadowing the women as they cooked, taking notes and asking questions about their techniques. They were more than happy to share their knowledge with me, eager to pass on their culinary traditions to a curious outsider.

After I returned home, I set to work recreating the Chadian Peanut Soup in my own kitchen. I sourced the freshest ingredients I could find, taking care to roast the peanuts just right and grind them to the perfect consistency. I carefully measured out the spices, trying to replicate the exact blend that the women had used.

As the soup simmered on my stovetop, filling my home with its tantalizing aroma, I felt a sense of satisfaction and pride. I had successfully recreated a taste of Africa in my own kitchen, a dish that brought back memories of my travels and the wonderful people I had met along the way.

Since then, Chadian Peanut Soup has become a staple in my cooking repertoire. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, passing on the tradition of this delicious and comforting dish. Each time I make it, I am transported back to that small village in Chad, surrounded by the warmth and hospitality of the women who taught me their secrets.

In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, it is comforting to know that some traditions remain timeless. The simple act of sharing a meal with loved ones, of breaking bread together and enjoying the fruits of our labor, is a universal experience that transcends borders and cultures.

And so, as I ladle out steaming bowls of Chadian Peanut Soup to my family and friends, I am reminded of the joy and connection that food can bring. It is a reminder of the power of shared meals and shared experiences, of the bonds that unite us as human beings.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have learned this recipe, to have been welcomed into the kitchens of the women who shared their knowledge with me. And I will continue to cook this soup with love and care, honoring the traditions and memories that have been passed down to me.

For in every spoonful of Chadian Peanut Soup, I taste the richness of Africa, the warmth of its people, and the love that transcends language and culture. And for that, I am truly grateful.