Cookbook:M'batata (Sweet Potato And Peanut Soup)

M'batata is a flavorful and creamy soup popular in the Central African Republic. It combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of peanuts, resulting in a comforting and nourishing dish.

Ingredients

 * 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
 * 1 onion, chopped
 * 2 garlic cloves, minced
 * 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
 * 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
 * 1 cup unsalted peanuts
 * 1 teaspoon ground cumin
 * 1 teaspoon ground coriander
 * ½ teaspoon chile powder (optional, for heat)
 * Salt to taste
 * Pepper to taste
 * 1 cup coconut milk (optional)
 * Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

 * Large pot
 * Blender or food processor
 * Wooden spoon or spatula
 * Knife
 * Cutting board
 * Soup ladle
 * Potato masher or fork

Procedure

 * 1) Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
 * 2) Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pot and stir them together with the onions and garlic for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
 * 3) Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, ensuring that the sweet potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily mashed with a fork, usually around 15–20 minutes.
 * 4) While the sweet potatoes are cooking, toast the peanuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become fragrant and slightly browned. This step helps to enhance the flavor of the peanuts.
 * 5) Transfer the toasted peanuts to a blender or food processor and process them until they form a smooth peanut butter-like consistency. You may need to scrape down the sides of the blender or food processor a few times to ensure everything is well blended.
 * 6) Once the sweet potatoes are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Use a potato masher or the back of a fork to mash the sweet potatoes until they are smooth and creamy in texture.
 * 7) Return the pot to low heat and add the peanut butter to the mashed sweet potatoes, stirring well to combine. The soup will become thick and creamy.
 * 8) Add the ground cumin, ground coriander, chili powder (if desired), salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld for a few minutes.
 * 9) If using coconut milk, pour it into the pot and stir it into the soup, adding an extra layer of creaminess and flavor. Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
 * 10) Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
 * 11) Ladle the m'batata into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro or parsley, if desired.

Notes, tips, and variations

 * M'batata is best served hot, and it pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad. This comforting soup is a wonderful representation of Central African cuisine, combining the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the richness of peanuts to create a truly delicious and satisfying dish.