Sopa de Maní Recipe

Dish recipes: Sopa de Maní

Sopa de Maní, or Peanut Soup, is a beloved traditional Bolivian dish that’s both creamy and comforting. Made with ground peanuts, vegetables, tender meat, and aromatic spices, this hearty soup is a staple in Bolivian households. Whether served as a starter or a main course, Sopa de Maní is packed with flavors that will warm your heart and soul.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

1 lb (0.45 kg) beef or chicken (cubed)

1 cup (0.22 lbs or 0.1 kg) raw peanuts, ground

2 medium potatoes, diced (0.7 lbs or 0.32 kg)

1 large carrot, sliced (0.5 lbs or 0.23 kg)

1 medium onion, finely chopped (0.2 lbs or 0.1 kg)

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

6 cups (1.4 L) water or beef/chicken stock

½ cup (0.11 lbs or 0.05 kg) green peas

1 cup (0.22 lbs or 0.1 kg) cooked white rice (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

Crispy potato sticks (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cubed meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant. Stir in the cumin and paprika, cooking for another minute.

Step 3: Add Peanuts and Stock Add the ground peanuts to the pot and mix well. Pour in the water or stock, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

Step 4: Cook the Soup Return the browned meat to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and green peas. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Optional Rice Addition If using cooked rice, add it to the soup in the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra texture.

Step 6: Final Touch Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving: Ladle the hot Sopa de Maní into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. For an authentic Bolivian touch, top with crispy potato sticks. Serve as a comforting main course or alongside a light salad.

Sopa de Maní is a delicious testament to the richness of Bolivian cuisine. Its creamy peanut base, tender meat, and hearty vegetables make it a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe and bring the warmth of Bolivian flavors to your table!