This Sweet Potato Chickpea Curry Soup is a warm and filling dish. It has creamy sweet potatoes and hearty chickpeas, all mingling in a spicy curry broth that’s just right!
You’ll love how easy it is to make—just throw everything in a pot and let it cook! I often enjoy it with some warm bread for dipping. So comforting for chilly days! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sweet Potatoes: These are the star of the show! They’re naturally sweet and creamy when cooked. If you can’t find sweet potatoes, you can use butternut squash as a great alternative.
Chickpeas: Packed with protein and fiber, they add heartiness to the soup. If you’re short on time, canned chickpeas work perfectly. You could also use white beans or lentils as a substitute.
Curry Powder: This brings warmth and depth. Feel free to adjust the amount to your spice preference! If you want to mix it up, try Garam Masala or a combination of cumin, coriander, and turmeric for a homemade blend.
Coconut Milk: It adds a creamy richness to the soup. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use light coconut milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, but it will change the flavor a bit.
How Can I Ensure My Soup Has the Right Flavor Balance?
Flavor balance is key in soups like this! Start with a good base of sautéed onions, garlic, and ginger. Make sure to taste as you go along!
- Adjust the spices gradually. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take out.
- After adding the coconut milk, let it simmer a little before tasting for seasoning again. This helps incorporate all the flavors.
- If the soup is too sweet for your liking, a splash of lime juice can help balance it out.
Sweet Potato Chickpea Curry Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For The Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1-2 tbsp curry powder (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes or cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (optional for a bit of tang)
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro leaves, roughly chopped
- Red chili flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Cooked rice or naan bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes before you can enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato Chickpea Curry Soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base Flavors:
Start by heating the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent. This step is crucial as it builds the foundational flavors for your soup!
2. Add Aromatics:
Now, stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for 1 more minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
3. Toast the Spices:
Next, sprinkle in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and chili flakes (if using). Stir everything well for about a minute. This toasting step enhances the spices’ flavors and sets the stage for a rich soup.
4. Combine the Veggies:
Time to add in the diced sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and diced tomatoes (if you chose to use them). Give it a good stir to coat all the vegetables and legumes with the aromatic spices.
5. Add Liquid and Cook:
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Mix in Coconut Milk:
After the sweet potatoes are cooked, stir in the coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Gently heat through without boiling to keep the creaminess of the coconut intact.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, stir in half of the chopped cilantro to infuse some fresh color and flavor. Ladle your fragrant soup into bowls, and don’t forget to garnish with more cilantro and a sprinkle of red chili flakes if you’re feeling spicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve hot with a side of cooked rice or warm naan bread for dipping. This soup is sure to warm you up and brighten your day!
Enjoy your flavorful Sweet Potato Chickpea Curry Soup! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Beans Instead of Chickpeas?
Yes, you can definitely swap out the chickpeas for other beans! White beans, black beans, or even lentils would work well in this soup. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if using lentils, as they may require less time to cook.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you want an extra kick, simply increase the amount of chili flakes or cayenne pepper. You can also add fresh chopped green chilies when sautéing the onions, or serve with a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce at the end for added heat.
Can This Soup Be Made Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup stores well and can be made a day in advance. Just let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just be sure to leave some space in the container since it will expand as it freezes. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
