Soyo de Maní
A rich and savory peanut soup, often considered a hearty and comforting staple in Paraguayan cuisine. It's typically made with ground peanuts, meat (often beef or chicken), and vegetables, seasoned with local spices.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Beef chuck(cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 250 g Peanut butter(unsweetened, natural)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 medium Bell pepper(chopped (any color))
- 400 g Tomatoes(crushed or diced)
- 1.5 liters Beef broth
- 200 g Corn kernels(fresh or frozen)
- 0.5 cup Cilantro(chopped, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides. Remove beef and set aside.
⏱️ 8-10 minutes - 2
Add chopped onion and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
⏱️ 7 minutes💡 Tip: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. - 3
Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
⏱️ 1 minute - 4
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 5
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Ensure the beef is mostly submerged in liquid. - 6
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
⏱️ 1 hour💡 Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. - 7
In a separate bowl, whisk the peanut butter with about 2 cups of the hot broth from the pot until smooth. This prevents lumps.
💡 Tip: Using hot liquid helps to dissolve the peanut butter more easily. - 8
Pour the peanut butter mixture back into the pot. Stir well to combine. Add the corn kernels.
💡 Tip: The soup will thicken considerably. - 9
Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until the soup reaches your desired consistency.
⏱️ 20 minutes💡 Tip: If the soup becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water. - 10
Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
💡 Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a smoother soup, you can blend a portion of it before adding the peanut butter.
- ✓Ensure you use unsweetened peanut butter for the best flavor balance.
- ✓This soup can be made ahead of time; the flavors often improve overnight.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Use shredded chicken instead of beef.
- Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes along with the beef.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño with the onions.