Peanut Soup - From Costa Rica
A creamy Costa Rican peanut soup with rich peanut flavor, perfect served cold. Refreshing and hearty, ideal for warm days or as a unique starter for gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soften the peanut butter in a pan over low heat.
- Gradually stir in milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Chill the soup until cold.
- Serve chilled.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, opt for creamy peanut butter, but chunky can add a delightful crunch. If you're looking for a lighter version, consider using almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more pepper for a kick or a splash of hot sauce for heat. This soup can also be enhanced with a drizzle of honey for sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the peanut soup chilled as a refreshing appetizer or light lunch. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal. For a unique twist, consider garnishing with chopped cilantro or crushed peanuts to add texture and flavor. This dish is also excellent alongside vegetarian recipes for a satisfying feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peanut Soup - From Costa Rica contains roughly 719 calories, with 30g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (59% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 710mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use powdered peanut butter instead of jarred peanut butter?
Yes, you can use powdered peanut butter as a lower-fat alternative. Just mix it with water according to package instructions to achieve a creamy texture before adding it to the soup. Be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed, as powdered peanut butter can have a different flavor profile.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Peanut soup can be frozen, but the texture may change upon thawing. To freeze, place the soup in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk if it appears too thick.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the soup?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, or spices such as cumin or paprika. A splash of lime juice can also brighten the taste. You might also explore pairing this soup with dishes like German Kaiserschmarren for a delightful contrast of flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).