Introduction
Warm, comforting, and oh-so-flavorful, this Roasted Italian Sweet Potato Soup is the perfect dish to cozy up with on a chilly evening. Sweet potatoes, with their natural sweetness, are combined with fragrant herbs and spices, creating a rich, creamy soup that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine. With every spoonful, you’ll taste the comforting blend of roasted sweetness and savory warmth, making this a delightful addition to your meal rotation!
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). The heat will bring out the natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes.
- Toss the cubed sweet potatoes in a mixing bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast the sweet potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender and have a golden brown hue.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes — this will infuse your soup with wonderful flavor.
- Add the minced garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is fragrant.
- Stir in the roasted sweet potatoes and pour in the vegetable broth. Raise the heat to bring everything to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Stir in the coconut milk and taste for seasoning, adjusting with salt and pepper as desired for that perfect flavor balance.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a lovely, aromatic touch!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to adjust the spiciness of the soup by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your taste.
- For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting the garlic cloves along with the sweet potatoes.
- This soup can be made ahead of time and freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
Roasting sweet potatoes intensifies their natural flavors and adds a delightful caramelization that enhances the overall taste of the soup. Sautéing the onions and garlic creates a fragrant base, while pureeing the soup results in a smooth, creamy texture that is both comforting and satisfying. Using an immersion blender is a hassle-free way to achieve that creamy consistency without transferring the soup to another bowl.
FAQ
- Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes? Absolutely! While it will change the flavor profile and sweetness, traditional potatoes can work well in this recipe.
- Is this soup vegan? Yes, this Roasted Italian Sweet Potato Soup is vegan-friendly, especially when made with vegetable broth.
- What can I serve with this soup? This soup pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread for dipping!
Conclusion
There you have it! A velvety bowl of Roasted Italian Sweet Potato Soup that not only warms the soul but also delights the palate. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrition, this soup is sure to be a favorite amongst family and friends. So grab your spoons and dig into this delicious bowl of comfort!