This warm and hearty Sweet Potato Kale Soup is a delicious mix of sweet potatoes and leafy kale, perfect for chilly days. It’s creamy, filling, and oh-so-comforting!
Honestly, who can resist a bowl of soup that tastes like a warm hug? I love topping mine with a bit of crunchy bread for a tasty combo. Yum!
Making this soup is so easy! I just chop the veggies, toss them in a pot, and let it simmer. It’s perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive oil: This is my go-to for sautéing veggies due to its heart-healthy fats. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil or coconut oil can also work well.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor. Yellow onions are perfect, but feel free to swap in shallots or even leeks for some variety.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a lovely aroma. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but fresh is always better for that rich flavor!
Sweet potatoes: These are the star of the soup! If you don’t have sweet potatoes, regular potatoes or butternut squash can be a good substitute.
Kale: I love using kale for its nutrition and texture. Spinach or Swiss chard can easily replace it if that’s what you have on hand.
Sausage: I often use cooked sausage for added protein and flavor. Vegan sausage or beans are great alternatives if you’d like to keep it plant-based.
How Do You Get the Perfect Soup Texture?
A great texture makes all the difference in soup! Pureeing part of the soup creates a creamy base while still leaving some chunks for heartiness.
- After simmering the sweet potatoes, use an immersion blender to puree half. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer a portion to a regular blender, then return it to the pot.
- This method helps thicken the soup without making it completely smooth, keeping those yummy sweet potato pieces.
Another tip is to let the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking. The flavors deepen and improve with a short rest!
Sweet Potato Kale Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups chopped kale, stems removed
- 1 cup cooked sausage slices (optional, can use vegan sausage or omit)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or apple cider vinegar (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and let it cook for about 5 minutes until it becomes softened and translucent. This is where the magic begins!
2. Add the Spices:
Next, toss in the minced garlic, ground cumin, and smoked paprika. Allow this mixture to cook for about 1 minute, stirring until the aroma fills your kitchen. Your taste buds will be tingling!
3. Incorporate the Sweet Potatoes:
Stir in the cubed sweet potatoes, ensuring they’re coated with the delicious spices and onions. This step adds a lovely sweetness and color to your soup.
4. Pour in the Vegetable Broth:
Now, it’s time to add the vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when poked with a fork.
5. Blend for Creaminess:
Using an immersion blender, puree about half the soup to achieve a creamy texture while still leaving some chunks for a hearty feel. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer half of the soup to a regular blender. Blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
6. Add Kale and Sausage:
Stir in the chopped kale and if you’re using it, the sausage slices. Let it simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the kale is beautifully wilted and incorporated into the soup.
7. Final Seasoning:
Don’t forget to season your soup with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra zing, add in the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar—it really brightens up the flavors!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of freshness. Enjoy every spoonful of this nourishing Sweet Potato Kale Soup, bursting with sweet, savory, and smoky flavors!
This soup is not only delicious but also a comforting and wholesome meal that’s perfect for any day!
Can I Use Different Greens Besides Kale?
Absolutely! While kale adds great texture and nutrition, you can substitute it with spinach or Swiss chard if you prefer. Just be aware that spinach wilts faster, so you may want to add it towards the end of cooking.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
What If I Don’t Have an Immersion Blender?
No worries! You can carefully transfer half of the soup to a regular blender, puree until smooth, and then return it to the pot. Just be cautious as the soup will be hot!
How Can I Thicken the Soup If It’s Too Thin?
If your soup is on the thinner side, you can add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water or blend in an additional sweet potato to thicken it up. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes to reach your desired consistency.
