Quirky Foodster
  1. Back

Soups

Groundnut and Vegetable Soup

The Quirky Foodster Team

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (0)
15 min
Prep
30 min
Cook

Ingredients

  • 150 g (1 cup) raw peanuts, roasted and ground
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 tomatoes, chopped
  • 200 g (7 oz) leafy greens, shredded
  • 1 litre (4 cups) vegetable or chicken stock
  • 2 tbsp cooking oil
  • 1/2 tsp chilli flakes (optional)
  • Salt, to taste

Method

  1. Heat the oil in a saucepan and soften the onion and carrots for 5 minutes.
  2. Add the tomatoes and cook for a further 3-4 minutes until softened.
  3. Pour in the stock and bring to a simmer, cooking for 15 minutes until the carrots are tender.
  4. Stir in the ground peanuts and simmer for a further 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup thickens slightly.
  5. Add the leafy greens and chilli flakes if using, and simmer 5 more minutes until the greens have wilted.
  6. Season with salt and serve hot with a side of maize porridge or bread.

Introduction: With peanuts among Eswatini's most important crops, groundnut soup is a natural extension of the pantry — a warming, protein-rich broth built around whatever vegetables are in season, thickened at the end with ground peanuts for body and flavour.

Cultural Background: With peanuts among Eswatini's most important crops, groundnut soup is a natural extension of the pantry — a warming, protein-rich broth built around whatever vegetables are in season, thickened at the end with ground peanuts for body and flavour.

Tips: Grind the peanuts finely for a smoother soup, or leave slightly coarse for more texture. Adding the greens at the end keeps their colour bright and prevents overcooking.

Variations: Shredded cooked chicken can be added for a heartier, main-meal version. Sweet potato can replace or supplement the carrots for extra sweetness.

Storage: Keeps refrigerated for up to 3 days; the soup thickens further on standing, so add a little water when reheating.

Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the peanut base catching.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use peanut butter?
A: Yes, use about 120g of smooth natural peanut butter in place of the ground roasted peanuts.

Q: Is this soup spicy?
A: As written it's mild with an optional chilli kick — leave out the chilli flakes entirely for a soup suitable for children.

© Arscale 2026