| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 55 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 256 | 7g | 2g | 44g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 10g | 9g | 4g | 0.98g |
There’s something uniquely comforting and nourishing about a good soup. Few recipes capture this sentiment quite as perfectly as the Swede and Sweet Potato Soup. The minute I stumbled across this gem, I found myself teleported back to the autumnal days of my Seattle childhood, and the warm, nutrient-dense cuisines of my Japanese roots. It may not have the sushi-roll element but the pure simplicity and profound depth of flavor harmonize like a well-played symphony.
A Symphony of Flavors
Each spoonful speaks to the senses in a different language; the sweet, earthy tones of swede and sweet potato playing host to the punchy coriander, Nutmeg’s subtle warmth and a delectable dance of salt and pepper. If you fancy a touch more decadence, a dash of heavy cream lends a velvety lushness to the palate, while optional fresh chives provide a pleasant color contrast and an additional layer of texture.
In many ways, this recipe is reminiscent of the Japanese Satsuma-imo (sweet potato) soup — a popular winter comfort food in Japan—with its nourishing, body-warming and soul-soothing properties.
A Hearty Companion to Many Main Courses
While this Swede and Sweet Potato soup stands tall on its own, it also seamlessly accompanies many main courses. I often pair it with a simple Soy-glazed salmon for a wholesome, flavor-balanced meal. Or, for a veggie-lover’s feast, think grilled Portobello mushrooms or even a hearty Vegan lentil loaf. Indeed, this soup is a versatile partner that can cater to a wide range of dietary preferences.
More Than Just Good Taste
But it’s not just about tantalizing the palate. This soup is packed with a wealth of nutritional benefits. Swedes and sweet potatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins and antioxidants, playing a crucial role in stabilizing blood sugar, promoting gut health, enhancing vision, and strengthening the immune system. Olive oil, regarded as a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. And let’s not forget the humble onion, a powerhouse of flavonoids and sulfur compounds known for their potential anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties.
Whether it’s reminiscing about the fall-touched days of your own childhood or looking for a healthy, versatile, and flavor-packed addition to your meal lineup, this Swede and Sweet Potato soup is your ticket to heartwarming indulgence.
What You’ll Need
- 2 medium swedes (rutabagas), peeled and chopped
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 cup of water
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup of heavy cream (optional)
- Freshly chopped chives for garnish (optional)
Method
Step One
Start by prepping the vegetables. Peel and chop the swedes and sweet potatoes. Cut away the root ends of the onion, peel, and finely dice.
Step Two
Heat up the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes transparent and soft. Stir occasionally so the onion does not burn.
Step Three
Add the chopped swedes and sweet potatoes into the pot. Allow them to cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step Four
Add the vegetable broth, water, ground coriander, and ground nutmeg to the pot. Stir everything together, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Five
Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat and letting it simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the swedes and sweet potatoes are soft and fully cooked.
Step Six
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender and blend in batches. Be careful when blending hot liquids and remember to allow steam to escape.
Step Seven
If you are using heavy cream, stir it in now. You can add more or less to taste. Allow the soup to heat through for additional 2-3 minutes.
Step Eight
Ladle the soup into bowls. If desired, garnish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped chives before serving.
Bon appétit!
