Peanut butter soup, also known as groundnut soup, is a beloved dish in many parts of West Africa, especially Ghana. With its rich, creamy texture and bold flavors, this comforting soup can be served with rice balls, fufu, or even bread. It is simple to make and features a combination of savory ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through how to prepare a delicious peanut butter soup from scratch.
Ingredients for Peanut Butter Soup
To make a pot of peanut butter soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (preferably natural peanut butter without added sugar)
- 500g meat of your choice (typically beef, goat meat, or chicken)
- 1 onion (finely chopped)
- 3 medium tomatoes (blended)
- 1-2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
- 2 tablespoons palm oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander (optional)
- 1-2 teaspoons chili pepper (depending on your spice preference)
- 2 cups stock (beef, chicken, or vegetable)
- Salt to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons sugar (optional, but it balances the acidity)
- 2 cups water
- Vegetables like carrots, spinach, or green beans (optional, for added flavor and nutrition)
Instructions for Making Peanut Butter Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
Start by cleaning and cutting your meat into small pieces. If you’re using beef, goat meat, or chicken, be sure to season it with salt, pepper, and any other spices of your choice (garlic, ginger, or even dried thyme). In a large pot, add some water and bring it to a boil, then add the seasoned meat and cook until it is tender. This might take around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the type of meat.
Step 2: Make the Peanut Butter Mixture
While the meat is cooking, place the peanut butter into a small bowl. Add a little bit of water or stock and stir well until you create a smooth, creamy peanut butter mixture. This is what will give your soup its rich, nutty flavor. Set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In another pan, heat the palm oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. Add the blended tomatoes, tomato paste, ground coriander (if using), and chili pepper. Allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture becomes a thick sauce.
Step 4: Combine the Peanut Butter and Tomato Mixture
Once the tomato mixture has cooked down and thickened, add the peanut butter mixture to the pot with the meat. Stir everything together until well combined. The peanut butter should mix nicely with the tomato sauce to create a creamy, flavorful base for your soup.
Step 5: Add Stock and Simmer
Now, pour in your stock and water, making sure that the soup has enough liquid to simmer. Stir the soup well and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. If you like your soup thicker, you can let it cook a bit longer, but if it’s too thick, feel free to add more stock or water.
Step 6: Add Vegetables (Optional)
If you like, you can add vegetables like carrots, green beans, or spinach to the soup for extra texture and nutrition. Simply add them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking, letting them cook through before serving.
Step 7: Adjust the Flavor
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. Add salt, sugar, or more chili, depending on your preferences. If the soup feels too thick, add a little more water or stock.
Step 8: Serve the Peanut Butter Soup
Once the soup is ready, serve it hot with your favorite accompaniment. Common sides include rice balls, fufu, or even bread. This hearty dish is often enjoyed as a family meal or during special occasions.
Tips for the Best Peanut Butter Soup
- Use Natural Peanut Butter: It’s always better to use peanut butter with minimal ingredients (just peanuts and salt) for a more authentic flavor.
- Customize with Vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for added nutrition. Some common options include sweet potatoes, okra, or pumpkin.
- For a Vegan Version: You can make this soup vegan by using vegetable stock and omitting the meat. Add tofu or mushrooms for a hearty alternative.
Variations of Peanut Butter Soup
While this recipe is a basic version of peanut butter soup, there are various regional differences in how it’s prepared. In Ghana, it is often served with rice balls, while in Nigeria, you might find it paired with pounded yam. Some variations also include smoked fish for a deeper flavor, or a spicy kick with extra pepper.
For more peanut butter soup variations and global recipes, check out these resources:
Conclusion
Peanut butter soup is a delightful and comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a rich, flavorful meal. Whether you’re in West Africa or elsewhere, it’s easy to prepare and adaptable to your taste. With its creamy texture and savory flavor, it’s a must-try for any soup lover. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a bowl of this delicious dish in no time!