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African Peanut Soup

I was looking at the community forums when I read the question - favorite comfort foods. This is my favorite comfort food - so I thought I'd better include the recipe for you all to try. I actually found it at vegparadise.com but I've altered the ingredients a bit so it's easier to make and to my liking. We eat this at least once a week as a main course.

5.0 · 3 reviewsRecipe card by cUte Kitty pUnkEditorial by recipesvibrant · Updated October 15, 2026
AfricanVegan< 60 MinsEasy
African Peanut Soup

Total time

35 min

Servings

6

Calories

410

Category

Vegetable

This vibrant African Peanut Soup delivers a deeply savory and creamy profile that warms the soul without needing a long simmer. It is the perfect weeknight staple for busy home cooks who crave a sophisticated, plant-based dinner that comes together in just 35 minutes.

Ingredients

Makes 6 servings

  • 2 onions
  • 6 garlic cloves
  • 2 olive oil
  • 2 chopped tomatoes
  • 5 vegetable broth
  • 1 tomato sauce
  • 2 tea bags
  • 1 chili powder
  • 2 chili powder
  • 1 3/4 ground cumin
  • 1/8 sea salt
  • 2 paprika
  • 3/4 spinach

Method

  1. Combine onions, garlic and olive oil in a large stockpot and cook till onions soft.

  2. Stir in tomatoes, broth, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, salt, paprika, and let the mint tea seep in at the side. Simmer 10-12 minutes.

  3. Add the spinach and peanut butter and let cook until everything is well combined like another 10 minutes (this is necessary especially if you used frozen spinach - I usually do).

  4. Ladle into bowls and serve with warmed pitas.

Cook's notes

  • Use creamy, natural peanut butter for the smoothest base, ensuring you stir it thoroughly into the broth until no lumps remain.
  • The addition of two steeped mint tea bags adds an unexpected, bright herbal note that cuts through the richness of the peanuts.
  • If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the pot to ensure your soup doesn't become diluted.
  • For a deeper flavor profile, toast your ground cumin and paprika in the olive oil with the garlic for 30 seconds before adding the liquid ingredients.

Easy swaps

  • Instead of Vegetable broth, use Coconut waterProvides a subtle natural sweetness that pairs exceptionally well with the peanut butter.
  • Instead of Spinach, use KaleKale holds its texture longer if you are planning on reheating the soup multiple times.
  • Instead of Olive oil, use Refined coconut oilAdds a hint of tropical aroma consistent with traditional versions of this dish.
  • Instead of Chili powder, use Harissa pasteOffers a complex, smoky heat that elevates the spice profile beyond standard chili powder.

Frequently asked

Does the mint tea make the soup taste like dessert?

Not at all; the mint provides a savory, aromatic lift that balances the earthiness of the peanut butter and cumin, similar to how fresh herbs are used in stews.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Absolutely. Since the recipe calls for chili powder, you can easily increase the amount or add a pinch of cayenne pepper during the simmering stage for more heat.

Should I use chunky or creamy peanut butter?

Creamy is recommended for a silky, consistent soup texture, but chunky can be used if you prefer a bit of added texture in every bite.

What should I serve with this besides pita bread?

This soup pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or even a side of roasted sweet potatoes to round out the meal.

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