Virginia Peanut Soup
Virginia Peanut Soup is a creamy, savory dish featuring peanut butter and fresh vegetables, perfect for comforting meals and those with a love for rich, nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine in a pan.
- Add diced onion and chopped celery; sauté for 5 minutes.
- Do not brown the vegetables.
- Add flour and stir until the mixture is well blended.
- Gradually add hot chicken broth, stirring constantly.
- Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using smooth peanut butter instead of chunky. If you're looking for a healthier option, try substituting half the peanut butter with tahini. You can also add spices like cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or a splash of soy sauce for umami. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Virginia Peanut Soup warm, garnished with chopped peanuts for added crunch. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad like Cabbage Ramen Slaw for a delightful contrast in textures. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside Jean's Chicken for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Virginia Peanut Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Virginia Peanut Soup contains roughly 444 calories, with 9g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1076mg per serving (47% 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 freeze Virginia Peanut Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup! Let it cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of broth or water if it thickens.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer not to use margarine, you can substitute with unsalted butter or a plant-based butter alternative. Olive oil or coconut oil can also work well, although they may impart a slightly different flavor. Adjust the quantity to maintain the same richness in the soup.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make Virginia Peanut Soup gluten-free, simply replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch. Be sure to check that your chicken broth is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This allows everyone to enjoy this comforting dish.
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).