Thai Peanut Soup

by
Bowl of creamy Thai Peanut Soup garnished with herbs

Thai Peanut Soup is a warm, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of Thailand with a creamy base. This soup is not only delicious but also nourishing. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. The balance of sweet potatoes and peanut butter makes it hearty, while the coconut milk adds a smooth creaminess. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables!

Making this soup is simple and quick. It is ideal for those busy weeknights when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The ingredients come together easily and can be adjusted to suit your taste.

HOW TO MAKE Thai Peanut Soup

Ingredients:

  • 1-2 Tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion (sliced, chopped, or diced)
  • 1 clove garlic (finely chopped)
  • 1 large red bell pepper (chopped)
  • 2 large sweet potatoes (peeled and roughly mashed)
  • 1-32 ounce container chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1-13 ounce can unsweetened coconut milk
  • 6 Tablespoons natural peanut butter
  • 3 Tablespoons red curry paste
  • 1 Tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • Cilantro (for garnish)
  • Chopped peanuts (for garnish)

DIRECTIONS:

  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender.
  3. Add the sweet potatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, coconut milk, peanut butter, red curry paste, soy sauce, and peas to the pot.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
  5. After cooking, allow it to cool for about 15 minutes.
  6. Ladle or pour the soup into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If you’re using a blender, you may need to process it in smaller batches.
  7. If you have an immersion blender, you can use it directly in the pot to blend the soup.
  8. Garnish with cilantro and chopped peanuts if you desire.

You can keep leftovers in the refrigerator in a tightly sealed container for up to 5 days. Reheat as necessary. If you want to save it longer, the soup can be frozen in a large zip-top bag or storage container for up to 3 months.

 

 

HOW TO SERVE Thai Peanut Soup

Serve the Thai Peanut Soup hot. It’s wonderful as a main dish or as a starter for a meal. You can serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of rice for a more filling option. The freshness of cilantro and the crunch of chopped peanuts make great garnishes that enhance the flavors beautifully.

For an added twist, you can serve the soup in bowls topped with a squeeze of fresh lime juice. This will give it a zesty kick that pairs well with the creamy peanut butter.

HOW TO STORE Thai Peanut Soup

After making Thai Peanut Soup, allow it to cool completely before storing it. Pour the soup into an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

If you plan to keep it longer, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can store it in a large zip-top bag or a container for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally.

TIPS TO MAKE Thai Peanut Soup

  1. Adjust Spice Level: If you want to make the soup spicier, feel free to add more red curry paste or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
  2. Vegetable Add-ons: You can add more vegetables, like carrots or zucchini, for extra nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and add them with the onions.
  3. Creamier Texture: If you prefer a very creamy soup, you can add more coconut milk or peanut butter.
  4. Blending: If you like some texture in your soup, only blend half of it and leave the rest chunky.
  5. Make it Vegan: Use vegetable broth and ensure that the peanut butter is free from dairy products.

VARIATIONS

  1. Thai Peanut Noodle Soup: Add cooked rice noodles to the soup for a hearty meal.
  2. Spicy Thai Peanut Soup: Increase the amount of red curry paste or add a dash of chili oil for extra heat.
  3. Meaty Version: Incorporate cooked chicken or tofu for added protein.
  4. Lemon or Lime Thai Peanut Soup: Add a few tablespoons of lime or lemon juice for a citrusy zing that brightens the flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of nut butter?
Yes, you can substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter, but the flavor will change slightly.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

3. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free soy sauce, this soup can be a gluten-free option. Always check your product labels to ensure they meet your dietary needs.

4. Can I use fresh sweet potatoes instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh sweet potatoes can be used. Just make sure to peel and chop them as needed before cooking.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Thai Peanut Soup, whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it on your own. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make—perfect for any occasion!