This cozy Sweet Potato Chickpea Curry Soup is both creamy and comforting. With sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and a warm blend of spices, it’s a hug in a bowl!
I love how it comes together quickly on a busy day. Plus, it’s so hearty that one bowl can make a perfect meal. You’ll want to sip it slowly, but I usually end up going back for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: The star of this soup! Their natural sweetness adds a lovely flavor. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, butternut squash or regular potatoes could work as alternatives.
Chickpeas: These are great for protein and texture. If you prefer, you could substitute with lentils for a different take, but adjustments in cooking time will be needed.
Curry Powder: This blend gives the soup its warmth. Feel free to use any curry powder you like, or try Garam Masala for a unique twist. Just be mindful of the spice level!
Coconut Milk: This adds creaminess and richness. You can swap it with almond milk for a lighter version, but the flavor will differ. Full-fat coconut milk is my go-to for the best taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Sweet Potatoes Cook Perfectly?
Getting the sweet potatoes just right is key for a cozy soup experience. To ensure optimal cooking, cut them into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This allows them to cook evenly.
- After adding them to the soup, keep the pot covered while it simmers to trap steam and cook them faster.
- Check their tenderness by piercing one with a fork after about 20 minutes. If it goes through easily, they’re done!
How to Make Sweet Potato Chickpea Curry Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1-2 tbsp curry powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red chili flakes or fresh chilies for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup will take about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes for cooking. Overall, you’re looking at about 40 minutes to have a warm, hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until it turns translucent and soft. This will create a lovely aromatic base for your soup.
2. Add Aromatics:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger. Cook them together for 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant—this step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish.
3. Mix in the Spices:
Add the curry powder, ground turmeric, and cumin to the pot. Stir well to ensure the onions and garlic are well-coated with the spices. Sauté for about 1 minute to release their full aromas.
4. Combine the Main Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add the diced sweet potatoes, chickpeas, diced tomatoes (with their liquid), and vegetable broth to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine well. This is where your soup starts to take shape!
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender enough to pierce with a fork.
6. Add Creaminess:
Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, stir in the coconut milk. Gently heat through for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring everything is warmed nicely. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a kick, now’s the time to add the red chili flakes or fresh chilies!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped cilantro. This dish goes perfectly with rice or warm bread. Dig in and enjoy the cozy flavors of this sweet potato chickpea curry soup!
It’s creamy, mildly spiced, and perfect for a comforting meal. Enjoy every spoonful! 🍲
Can I Use Different Beans Instead of Chickpeas?
Absolutely! You can substitute chickpeas with other beans like black beans, kidney beans, or even lentils. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, especially for lentils, which may require less cooking time.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its flavor and texture, reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
Definitely! To amp up the spice, increase the amount of curry powder or add more red chili flakes. You can also incorporate fresh chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers during the cooking process for an extra kick!
Is There a Vegan Substitute for Coconut Milk?
If you prefer not to use coconut milk, you can substitute it with almond milk or any plant-based cream. Just keep in mind that it will alter the flavor and creaminess, but it’ll still be delicious!
