How to Make Chinese Sweet Potato Soup

Chinese Sweet Potato Soup is a delicious and nourishing dish that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with various other ingredients to create a comforting bowl of goodness. This recipe is both easy to follow and customizable, making it perfect for any season.

Ingredients

To make Chinese Sweet Potato Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 4 cups of vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions for garnish
  • Optional: 1 cup of coconut milk or almond milk for a creamier texture

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Chinese Sweet Potato Soup:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by peeling and dicing the sweet potatoes into small cubes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. Having your ingredients prepared will make the cooking process smoother.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Cook the Sweet Potatoes

Once the aromatics are ready, add the diced sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir them well to coat with the oil and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the sweet potatoes to caramelize slightly.

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients

Pour in the vegetable broth or water, and add the soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Blend the Soup

If you prefer a smooth soup, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until you reach your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, you can mash some of the sweet potatoes with a fork, leaving some pieces intact.

Step 6: Final Seasoning

After blending, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you’re adding coconut milk or almond milk for a creamier soup, stir it in at this stage and heat through.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Garnish each serving with chopped green onions for a pop of color and an added crunch.

Variations and Tips

Feel free to experiment with your Chinese Sweet Potato Soup by adding different ingredients. You can include vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, or even protein sources such as tofu. For a spicy kick, consider adding fresh ginger or chili flakes.

This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can also be frozen for up to a month, making it a great option for meal prep. Enjoy this warm and comforting bowl of Chinese Sweet Potato Soup as a starter or a main dish at any time of the year!