Sopa de Maní
A hearty and flavorful peanut soup, Sopa de Maní is a beloved comfort food in Paraguay, often made with beef and vegetables. It's known for its rich, savory taste and satisfying texture.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef stew meat(cut into cubes)
- 200 g Raw peanuts(skinless)
- 1 large Onion(diced)
- 2 medium Carrots(diced)
- 1/2 Red bell pepper(diced)
- 3 medium Potatoes(peeled and cubed)
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1.5 l Beef or vegetable stock
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 2 tbsp Olive oil or vegetable oil
- for garnish Fresh parsley or cilantro
- for garnish Fried potatoes (optional)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a blender or food processor, combine the raw peanuts with 1 cup of water and blend until a smooth paste forms. Set aside.
💡 Tip: If using raw peanuts, ensure they are well-ground to avoid indigestion. - 2
Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides. Remove beef and set aside.
- 3
Add diced onion, carrots, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 5
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the cubed potatoes and pour in the beef or vegetable stock. Season with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Ensure the beef is fully submerged in the stock. - 6
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
💡 Tip: Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during the initial simmering. - 7
Stir in the peanut paste. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
💡 Tip: Keep the heat low to prevent the peanut paste from burning at the bottom of the pot. The soup should thicken. - 8
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
💡 Tip: The soup should have a rich, savory flavor. - 9
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro and optional fried potatoes.
💡 Tip: Serve with crusty bread on the side.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother soup, you can strain the peanut paste after blending.
- ✓If the soup becomes too thick, add a little more stock or water.
- ✓This soup can also be made with chicken or pork.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other vegetables like peas or green beans.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili powder or a dash of hot sauce.
- Serve with a dollop of llajua (a Bolivian salsa) if available.