As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to paint the landscape in hues of gold and crimson, I find myself yearning for cozy dishes that warm the soul. One evening, as I rummaged through a bounty of sweet potatoes and apples, inspiration struck. What if these humble ingredients could transform into a velvety Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup? This delightful blend brings together the natural earthiness of sweet potatoes with the fruity sweetness of apples, spiced gently with smoky chipotle for that extra kick. It’s the ideal dish for those chilly nights when you crave comfort without sacrificing flavor or health.
Quick and easy to whip up, this soup stands out as a perfect weeknight option, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the cozy ambiance. Get ready to wrap your hands around a warm bowl of this creamy goodness; each spoonful is like a hug on a cold day! Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe that’s bound to become a seasonal favorite in your home.
Why is Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup special?
Comforting and warm, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings when you need a nourishing meal. Hearty flavors blend together seamlessly, offering a delightful balance between sweet and smoky. Speedy prep time means you can whip this up in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Versatile enough to serve with crusty bread or a light salad, it appeals to everyone at the table—even those new to healthy eating! For more delicious options, check out my collection of healthy soup recipes.
Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Olive oil or ghee – Adds fat for flavor and helps sauté the vegetables; substitute with any cooking oil if needed.
- Onion – Provides a savory base flavor; shallots can be used for a milder taste instead.
- Sea salt – Enhances overall flavor; use to taste without any substitutes necessary.
- Black pepper – Adds warmth and mild heat; white pepper can be used for a lighter flavor.
- Garlic cloves – Contributes aromatic depth; garlic powder can substitute at 1/8 tsp per clove if fresh is unavailable.
For the Main Ingredients
- DOLE sweet potatoes – The star ingredient, offering natural sweetness and texture; Yukon Gold can be a great substitute.
- DOLE Royal Gala apples – Adds a hint of fruity sweetness; any sweet apple variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp works well too.
- Low sodium chicken or vegetable broth – Serves as the soup’s liquid base; consider water with additional seasonings for a lighter option.
- Canned Chipotle chiles in adobo sauce – Delivers smoky heat; use 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika for a milder flavor.
For Serving (optional)
- Chopped apple – Adds a fresh crunch to the soup.
- Scallions – Provides a fresh, oniony finish that complements the dish beautifully.
- Ground chipotle powder or smoked paprika – Enhances smokiness as a delightful garnish.
How to Make Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup
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Heat Oil: Pour olive oil or ghee into a large pot over medium heat. Allow it to warm for a minute, then add onion, sea salt, and black pepper. Sauté until the onion is tender and translucent, about 6-8 minutes.
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Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute. The aroma will elevate your anticipation for this cozy soup!
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Combine Ingredients: Add the DOLE sweet potatoes, DOLE Royal Gala apples, broth, and chipotle chiles to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and cook until the sweet potatoes are tender, approximately 12-15 minutes.
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Blend: Carefully puree the soup in batches using a blender or an immersion blender until it’s smooth and creamy. Adjust the thickness as desired by adding more broth or water.
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Season and Serve: Return the pureed soup to the pot, taste, and season with additional salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with chopped apple, scallions, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika or ground chipotle for that extra flair!
Optional: Add a drizzle of olive oil for a rich finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize your comforting soup with these delightful twists that will take your flavors on a journey!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness.
- Creamy Dream: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a velvety finish that enriches the soup’s texture.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking for an aromatic layer of flavor that elevates every spoonful.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with toasted pumpkin seeds or chopped pecans for that satisfying crunch and an additional nutty flavor.
- Roasted Sweetness: Roast the sweet potatoes and apples before adding to the soup for deeper, caramelized flavors.
- Cheesy Bliss: Sprinkle grated cheese, like sharp cheddar or feta, on top just before serving for a creamy, savory addition.
- Celebrating Citrus: A squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in some chopped kale or spinach for a healthy boost, adding both color and nutrition to the dish.
With these variations, your Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup will always be a delightful adventure!
Expert Tips for Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup
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Choose Fresh Produce: Opt for seasonal sweet potatoes and apples for the best flavor and nutrition. Fresh produce makes this Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup truly shine.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the sweet potatoes; overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. They should be tender but still hold their shape before blending.
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Adjust Heat Levels: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with one chipotle pepper, then gradually add more until it meets your taste preference for the soup.
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Blend for Smoothness: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot to save time and keep everything tidy. Ensure the soup is fully blended for that luxurious, creamy consistency.
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Enhance Flavor: Consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a hint of cinnamon for an extra depth of flavor to your Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup.
How to Store and Freeze Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove for best results.
Reheating: When reheating, stir well to ensure even warming. If the soup has thickened, add a bit of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Quality Check: Always check for any shifts in flavor or smell before eating after storage; if anything seems off, throw it away to be safe.
Make Ahead Options
This Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy days while still enjoying a hearty meal! You can prepare the soup base (without blending) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply sauté the onions, garlic, and spices, then add the sweet potatoes, apples, broth, and chipotle chiles. Allow the mixture to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simmer the mixture on the stove until heated through, and then blend until smooth just before serving. This ensures the flavors remain vibrant, and you’ll have delicious comfort food in no time!
What to Serve with Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup?
As the autumn chill settles in, it’s time to create a heartwarming, full meal that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds.
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Crusty Baguette: The perfect companion for this soup, offering a robust texture to soak up every delicious drop.
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Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with crunchy apples and tangy vinaigrette contrasts beautifully with the creamy soup, bringing freshness to your meal.
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Cheddar Grilled Cheese: A melty, cheesy delight that adds comfort and a savory contrast to the sweet and smoky flavors of the soup, making it a favorite for all ages.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The crispy and slightly charred edges of these veggies elevate your dish, providing a satisfying crunch that balances the smoothness of the soup.
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Autumn Spiced Cider: Sip on this warm drink made with cinnamon and cloves, enhancing the cozy vibe while complementing the sweet and smoky notes in your soup.
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Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a slice of this classic fall treat marks the end of your meal with warm spices and creamy texture that echoes the soup’s comforting flavors.
By combining these sides with your Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup, you create a memorable dining experience that celebrates the essence of the season!
Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting sweet potatoes and apples?
Absolutely! When choosing sweet potatoes, look for those that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes. They should have smooth skin with no cracks. For apples, opt for those that are crisp and fragrant—Royal Gala apples are a great choice, characterized by their rich color. Avoid any apples with bruises or softness.
How should I store leftovers of Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup?
Very good question! Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Make sure the soup is completely cooled before placing it in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened.
Can I freeze Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup, and if so, how?
Of course! Freezing this soup is super convenient. First, let it cool completely. Then, pour the soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, stirring well to prevent uneven warming.
What should I do if my soup is too thick after reheating?
Great question! If your reheated soup turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t fret! Simply stir in a little water or broth until you reach your desired consistency. Start with a few tablespoons, mix well, and gradually add more if necessary. This will also help impact the flavor, reconciling it to its propert texture.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of with this soup?
Absolutely! This Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup is vegetarian-friendly and can easily be made vegan by opting for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. If you’re cooking for family members with specific allergies, be mindful of the chipotle chiles—as they can be spicy. Always check the ingredients of your broth and any optional garnishes, like scallions or spices, to ensure they meet dietary restrictions.
Can I make any substitutions for the ingredients?
Very much so! If you don’t have access to DOLE sweet potatoes or Royal Gala apples, other sweet potatoes like Yukon Gold or any sweeter apple variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp will work beautifully. Want to tone down the smoky flavor? Substitute the chipotle chiles with smoked paprika for a milder version. Just remember, the more the merrier when it comes to flavor experimentation!
Smoky Sweet Potato and Apple Soup for Cozy Fall Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pour olive oil or ghee into a large pot over medium heat. Warm for a minute, then add onion, sea salt, and black pepper. Sauté until onion is tender, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and let cook for an additional minute.
- Add sweet potatoes, apples, broth, and chipotle chiles to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook until sweet potatoes are tender, approximately 12-15 minutes.
- Carefully puree the soup in batches using a blender or immersion blender until smooth and creamy.
- Return pureed soup to the pot, taste, and season with additional salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with chopped apple, scallions, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika or ground chipotle.