Caribbean black bean and sweet potato soup | Made by Meaghan Moineau
Title: A Warm Caribbean Hug in a Bowl: Black Bean and Sweet Potato SoupDescription: Dive into a heartwarming journey with our Caribbean Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup. Infused with aromatic spices and enriched with sweet potatoes, this delightful dish is a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean. Join us as we explore this comforting recipe, perfect for any season, and share a nostalgic family memory that makes this dish truly special.
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A Taste of the Caribbean: Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup
As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to warm the soul. This Caribbean Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup is more than just a meal; it's a memory, a tradition, and a comforting embrace from the past.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dry black turtle beans- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 1 yellow sweet onion, diced
- 2 jalapenos, seeded and chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beans: Rinse the black turtle beans and place them in a large bowl. Cover with 4 inches of water and soak overnight, or for at least 8 hours. After soaking, strain and rinse the beans.2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped jalapenos, sautéing for about 10 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
3. Simmer the Soup: Add the rinsed beans and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir in the ground ginger, allspice, thyme, and coarse sea salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
4. Add Sweetness and Texture: Introduce the diced sweet potatoes and brown sugar into the pot, allowing the soup to simmer for an additional 30 minutes. This will ensure the beans and sweet potatoes are tender and packed with flavor.
5. Blend for Creaminess: Carefully puree 1 cup of the soup in a blender, then return it to the pot. This step enhances the soup's texture, making it creamy while still maintaining its hearty character.
6. Garnish and Serve: Stir in the chopped green onions and fresh cilantro. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
A Nostalgic Memory
This soup is a beloved family tradition, taking me back to my grandmother's cozy kitchen. I remember the warmth of the stove mingling with the rich aroma of spices, as we gathered around the table for our Sunday family dinner. My grandmother, with her gentle hands, would prepare this soup with love, weaving tales of her own childhood in the Caribbean. Each spoonful was a reminder of those cherished moments, where laughter and stories filled the air, and the soup brought us all closer together.
Difficulty Rating: 5/10
This recipe is moderately challenging, perfect for home cooks looking to expand their culinary repertoire with a dish that is both satisfying and impressive.
Classification: Main Dish
This Caribbean Black Bean and Sweet Potato Soup stands out as a hearty main dish, perfect for a comforting dinner or a cozy lunch. Experience the warmth and flavors of the Caribbean with every delightful bite.