Pork and Sweet Potato Soup
Pork and sweet potato soup is a comforting and nutrient-packed dish that balances the richness of tender pork with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes. Infused with aromatic spices and hearty vegetables, this soup offers a perfect combination of savory and slightly sweet flavors.
Ideal for a cold day or when you’re in need of a wholesome, satisfying meal, this one-pot wonder is both easy to prepare and deeply nourishing. Its vibrant orange hue and complex flavor profile make it a delight to serve at the family table.
Ingredients
Serves: 6
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Main Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) pork shoulder or pork loin, cut into bite-sized cubes
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups chicken or pork stock
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 bay leaf
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins:
1 cup kale or spinach, chopped
½ cup cooked quinoa or barley (for added texture and nutrition)
A splash of coconut milk for creaminess
Garnish:
Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
A drizzle of olive oil
How to Make Pork and Sweet Potato Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Trim and cube the pork, removing any excess fat.
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, and chop the vegetables.
Step 2: Brown the Pork
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the pork cubes and sear them until browned on all sides. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Soup Base
Add the canned diced tomatoes and stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables and spices.
Pour in the stock, and return the browned pork to the pot. Add the bay leaf and stir well.
Step 5: Add Sweet Potatoes
Stir in the cubed sweet potatoes and bring the soup to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the sweet potatoes are soft.
Step 6: Optional Ingredients
If using kale or spinach, stir it into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
For a creamy version, add a splash of coconut milk during the final 5 minutes.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and a drizzle of olive oil.
Chef’s Notes
Pork Selection: Pork shoulder adds a richer flavor due to its marbling, but pork loin is a leaner option.
Sweet Potato Variety: Orange-fleshed sweet potatoes work best, but you can use white or purple varieties for a unique twist.
Spice Adjustments: For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes.
Vegetarian Alternative: Replace pork with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable stock for a meat-free option.
Freezing Tip: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 320
Protein: 20 grams
Fat: 12 grams
Carbohydrates: 32 grams
Fiber: 6 grams
Vitamin A: 200% of Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin C: 25% of DV
Iron: 15% of DV
Calcium: 8% of DV
This soup is a balanced meal with lean protein from the pork, complex carbohydrates from the sweet potatoes, and a boost of vitamins from the vegetables. The addition of cinnamon and paprika not only enhances the flavor but also provides antioxidant benefits.
Conclusion
Pork and sweet potato soup is a heartwarming dish that strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet. The tender pork, creamy sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices create a flavorful and nourishing meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete dinner experience. Easy to prepare and versatile, this soup is perfect for any occasion!