Groundnut Soup

Groundnut Soup Recipe from Honduras | Peanuts, Chicken Stock, Hot Sauce, and More

Region / culture: Honduras | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Groundnut soup, also known as peanut soup, is a popular West African dish that is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. This soup is made with roasted peanuts, chicken stock, and a variety of seasonings to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Groundnut soup has been a staple in West African cuisine for centuries. Peanuts are native to the region and have been used in cooking for generations. The soup is often served at special occasions and celebrations, and is a favorite among both locals and visitors to the region.

Ingredients

4 oz (113 g) of peeled and roasted peanuts, just under a cup
5 cups of chicken stock
salt and freshly ground pepper
hot sauce, to taste
1 cup of heavy cream or evaporated milk
1 tbsp of angostura bitters
dry sherry or vermouth (optional)
croutons or chopped chives

How to prepare

Place the peanuts and enough chicken stock in an electric blender, ensuring that the peanuts are fully covered. Blend on high speed until a smooth paste is formed.
Transfer the mixture into a heavy saucepan and add the remaining chicken stock.
Season with salt, pepper, and hot pepper sauce according to taste.
Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, for approximately 15 minutes.
Stir in the cream and continue cooking, while stirring, until the mixture is heated through.
Incorporate the Angostura bitters into the mixture.
Optionally, add a tablespoon of dry sherry or dry vermouth to each serving.
Garnish with croutons and serve the soup hot. Alternatively, chill the soup and serve it sprinkled with chives.

Variations

Add vegetables such as spinach, kale, or okra for added nutrition.
Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk for a dairy-free version.
Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to roast the peanuts before blending them to bring out their nutty flavor.

- Adjust the seasonings to your taste, adding more or less pepper and hot sauce as desired.

- Stir the soup frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

- For a thicker soup, add less chicken stock or more peanuts.

- Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Groundnut soup can be served with rice, fufu, or crusty bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Roast the peanuts before blending to enhance their flavor.

- Blend the peanuts with chicken stock to create a smooth paste.

- Cook the soup over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanuts for a different flavor.

- Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.

- Use soy milk or coconut milk instead of evaporated milk for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Groundnut soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve groundnut soup in individual bowls garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Pair with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal.

Pairing Recommendations

Groundnut soup pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. Serve with a glass of white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing accompaniment.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover groundnut soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of groundnut soup contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of groundnut soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of groundnut soup contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of groundnut soup contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Groundnut soup is a good source of vitamin E, niacin, and magnesium.

Alergens

Groundnut soup contains peanuts and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Groundnut soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is rich in fats, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with rice or bread.

Summary

Groundnut soup is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a satisfying meal that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this West African classic on its own or paired with your favorite side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. It was a hot summer day and I was visiting my friend Sarah's house. As soon as I walked in, the aroma of groundnut soup filled the air. I had never heard of it before, but the delicious smell drew me in like a magnet.

Sarah's mother, Mrs. Thompson, was busy in the kitchen, stirring a large pot of the rich, creamy soup. She smiled as she saw me peeking over her shoulder, eager to learn more about this mysterious dish.

"Would you like to help me make groundnut soup, dear?" Mrs. Thompson asked, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

I nodded eagerly, and Mrs. Thompson began to show me the steps to making this traditional West African dish. She explained that groundnut soup was a staple in her family, passed down from generation to generation. The key ingredients were peanuts, tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and a variety of spices.

As we cooked together, Mrs. Thompson shared stories of her own grandmother, who was the mastermind behind the recipe. She spoke of how her grandmother would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully roasting and grinding peanuts to make the perfect peanut butter for the soup.

I was mesmerized by Mrs. Thompson's storytelling and her passion for this dish. I could see the love and dedication that went into every step of the cooking process. From toasting the peanuts to simmering the soup for hours, every detail was important in creating the rich and flavorful broth.

After several hours of cooking and stirring, the groundnut soup was finally ready. Mrs. Thompson ladled out steaming bowls for everyone to enjoy. As I took my first spoonful, I was transported to a world of warm spices and creamy peanut goodness. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before.

From that day on, groundnut soup became a favorite in my own kitchen. I would make it for special occasions and family gatherings, always thinking of Mrs. Thompson and her grandmother as I stirred the pot. I experimented with different variations of the recipe, adding my own twist with extra vegetables or a splash of coconut milk.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of groundnut soup to anyone who would listen. It became a staple in my own family, a dish that brought us together around the dinner table and warmed our hearts on cold winter nights.

As I look back on that fateful day in Sarah's kitchen, I am grateful for the gift of groundnut soup. It has been a constant in my life, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And I know that as long as I have this recipe in my repertoire, I will always have a piece of Mrs. Thompson and her grandmother with me in my kitchen.