Roasted Sweet Potato Soup with Coconut Milk and Ginger Recipe
If you’re anything like me, you know there’s nothing quite like a comforting bowl of soup to warm you up and lift your spirits. This Roasted Sweet Potato Soup with Coconut Milk and Ginger Recipe is exactly that—it’s creamy, cozy, and just packed with flavor that feels both exotic and familiar. Roasting the veggies brings out their natural sweetness, while the ginger gives it a lively zing, and the coconut milk rounds it all out with a luscious, dreamy texture. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to soup whenever you want something nourishing and downright delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
- Roasting Adds Depth: Slow-roasting the sweet potatoes, carrots, and bell pepper caramelizes their natural sugars, creating a rich, complex sweetness that’s the heart of this soup.
- Ginger’s Bright Kick: Fresh grated ginger cuts through the sweetness with a vibrant warmth that wakes up your palate.
- Creamy Coconut Milk: Coconut milk lends a velvety texture that makes the soup indulgent but dairy-free and light.
- Red Lentils for Body: These little legumes cook down beautifully to add subtle earthiness and natural thickening, so no need for flour or cream.
Ingredients & Why They Work
Each ingredient plays a starring role in this Roasted Sweet Potato Soup with Coconut Milk and Ginger Recipe. The mix of roasted root veggies gives sweetness and texture, while the broth and lentils build body. Plus, a few fresh herbs and spices tie everything together with freshness and warmth.
- Sweet potatoes: Pick firm potatoes with smooth skin—these roast beautifully and give the soup that cozy sweetness.
- Carrots: They add extra natural sweetness and a vibrant orange hue.
- Shallots: Milder than onions, they roast down gently, adding subtle sweetness and depth.
- Bell pepper: Roasting it whole softens the flavor and gives a subtle smoky backdrop.
- Garlic: Roasting mellows garlic’s bite to buttery smoothness—don’t skip this step!
- Vegan chicken or vegetable broth: This is your flavor base; using a good quality broth makes a huge difference.
- Dry red lentils: They break down easily, thickening the soup without overpowering it.
- Fresh rosemary: Adds aromatic earthiness—just remember to remove the stems before blending.
- Fresh grated ginger: The star spice that brightens and balances the sweetness.
- Lemon juice: A splash to brighten everything up just before serving.
- Coconut milk: Use full-fat for that creamy, dreamy texture.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring out all those lovely flavors.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a color pop and fresh herbal note at the end.
Tweak to Your Taste
What I love most about this Roasted Sweet Potato Soup with Coconut Milk and Ginger Recipe is how adaptable it is to your cravings or pantry. Feel free to play around and make it your own—it’s a forgiving, friendly soup!
- Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped fresh chili when you’re pureeing. I did this once and it gave such a delicious spicy warmth that paired perfectly with the sweetness.
- Herb swap: Don’t have rosemary? Thyme or sage work beautifully as well—just add the sprigs early to infuse the broth.
- Make it nutty: Toasted pumpkin seeds or a swirl of almond butter on top adds a lovely nutty crunch and richness.
- Extra creamy: For an ultra-indulgent touch, stir in a dollop of vegan yogurt or cashew cream just before serving.
Step-by-Step: How I Make Roasted Sweet Potato Soup with Coconut Milk and Ginger Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and prep the roasting pan
First things first, I preheat my oven to 425°F (220°C). I line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to help the veggies roast evenly and make cleanup a breeze. This recipe depends on those roasted veggies for its signature deep flavor, so don’t skimp on this part.
Step 2: Roast the sweet potatoes, carrots, shallots, and bell pepper
Peel and halve your sweet potatoes and carrots, peel the shallots, and toss everything into the pan along with the whole bell pepper. Drizzle with about 2 tablespoons of olive oil, sprinkle a pinch of salt and freshly cracked pepper, then toss so everything gets a light, even coating. Spread your veggies out in a single layer so they roast instead of steam. This step usually takes me about 45-60 minutes, flipping everything halfway through to get that perfect caramelization on all sides.
Step 3: Roast the garlic
While the veggies roast, I prepare the garlic. I peel off the outer layers, then slice a small bit off the top of the whole head to expose the cloves. Pop that right onto the baking sheet with the veggies—the garlic roasts alongside, mellowing and sweetening beautifully.
Step 4: Cook lentils with broth, rosemary, and ginger
While the veggies roast, I bring 6 cups of vegan chicken or vegetable broth to a boil in a large pot, add red lentils, fresh rosemary sprigs, and a heaping tablespoon of freshly grated ginger. Once boiling, I cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the lentils soften and start to break down. Then I fish out the rosemary stems and remove the pot from heat.
Step 5: Combine roasted veggies and garlic with the lentil broth
When your roasted veggies are done and golden brown, squeeze the soft, caramelized garlic out of its papery skin and add it to the pot. Then carefully transfer the rest of your roasted veggies—don’t forget to remove the bell pepper stem—into the pot with the lentils and broth.
Step 6: Puree, season, and add coconut milk and lemon juice
Using an immersion blender, I blend everything right in the pot until silky smooth. Then I stir in a generous cup of coconut milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice to brighten up all those rich flavors. Blend once more just to combine, then taste and adjust the salt and pepper. I return the soup to low heat to warm through, stirring gently so it doesn’t scorch.
Step 7: Serve with your favorite garnishes
I ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle a little extra coconut milk on top for that lovely swirl. A few grinds of black pepper and a sprinkle of fresh parsley finish it beautifully.
Pro Tips for Making Roasted Sweet Potato Soup with Coconut Milk and Ginger Recipe
- Don’t Skip Roasting: Roasting whole veggies slowly caramelizes their natural sugars and gives this soup its signature richness—you’ll notice a huge difference if you boil instead.
- Patience is Key: I learned that flipping the veggies halfway ensures even roasting so nothing burns or stays gummy.
- Use an Immersion Blender: I find immersion blenders easier for adjusting consistency as you go—plus fewer bowls to wash!
- Adjust Thickness After Cooling: This soup thickens in the fridge; just loosen it up with a splash of broth or coconut milk when reheating.
How to Serve Roasted Sweet Potato Soup with Coconut Milk and Ginger Recipe
Garnishes
What I actually use to finish the soup often depends on my mood. Fresh parsley is my go-to—it adds just the right pop of color and an herbal brightness. Sometimes I’ll sprinkle toasted pepitas or a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle heat and texture contrast. And a little extra drizzle of coconut milk on top not only makes it look inviting but adds a luscious creaminess with every spoonful.
Side Dishes
I find this soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a rich, nutty grain salad for a complete meal. When I want to keep things light, a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly. For chilly nights, add a side of roasted chickpeas or spiced nuts for crunch and protein.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I love serving this soup in small, clear glasses or mini mugs for an elegant appetizer feel. Swirling contrasting colors like a beet puree or herb oil on top can make it look restaurant-worthy. You can also top it with crispy shallots or coconut bacon for an unexpected twist that impresses guests without added fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
When I have leftovers of this Roasted Sweet Potato Soup with Coconut Milk and Ginger Recipe, I store the cooled soup in airtight containers in the fridge, where it keeps perfectly for up to five days. It thickens a bit in the fridge, but I just stir in a splash of broth or coconut milk before reheating to bring it back to the perfect, silky texture.
Freezing
This soup freezes like a dream, which is great when you want to make a big batch ahead of time. I portion it into freezer-safe jars or bags, leaving a bit of space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently on the stove, stirring to reincorporate.
Reheating
I prefer to reheat this soup slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If I’m in a hurry, I’ll use the microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. To keep that creamy consistency, I always add a splash of coconut milk or broth if it feels a bit thick or dry.
FAQs
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Can I make this soup without an immersion blender?
Absolutely! You can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender or food processor. Just be sure to let it cool a bit before blending and don’t fill the blender too full to avoid splatters. Blend until smooth, then return to the pot for final seasoning and warming.
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What type of coconut milk should I use?
I recommend full-fat canned coconut milk—it adds the richest creaminess and body to the soup. Light coconut milk works but will yield a thinner texture and less luxurious mouthfeel.
- Can I substitute other root vegetables?
Yes! Butternut squash, pumpkin, or parsnips make excellent substitutes or additions. Just adjust roasting time as needed so all veggies are tender before blending.
- Is this soup gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, when made with vegan broth, this recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan—perfect for friends with dietary restrictions.
- How spicy is this soup?
The recipe as is has a gentle warmth from fresh ginger but no actual heat. You can easily add chili flakes or cayenne if you want a spicier kick.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Sweet Potato Soup with Coconut Milk and Ginger Recipe feels like a big, warm hug in a bowl—and honestly, it’s one of my favorite things to make when I want something comforting yet full of bright, fresh flavors. It’s approachable, forgiving, and truly adaptable to whatever you have on hand. I hope you find yourself making this as often as I do, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or your star dish at your next gathering. Give it a try—you won’t regret it.
Print
Roasted Sweet Potato Soup with Coconut Milk and Ginger Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A comforting and creamy roasted sweet potato soup made with roasted vegetables, red lentils, and coconut milk, perfect for a nourishing vegan meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced in half
- 3 medium carrots, peeled
- 3 shallots, peeled
- 1 large bell pepper, whole
- 1 head garlic
Soup Base
- 6 cups vegan chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup dry red lentils
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 1 heaping tablespoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup coconut milk, plus more for serving
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425 F (220 C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat for roasting the vegetables.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Place the peeled and halved sweet potatoes, peeled carrots, peeled shallots, and whole bell pepper on the baking sheet.
- Season and Oil the Vegetables: Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the vegetables, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then toss to evenly coat. Spread the vegetables out in a single even layer on the baking sheet.
- Prepare the Garlic: Remove excess skin from the garlic head and cut off the top portion to expose the cloves. Place garlic on the baking sheet with the vegetables.
- Roast the Vegetables: Roast in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, flipping the vegetables halfway through, until the sweet potatoes are fork tender and all vegetables are roasted.
- Cook the Lentils: While roasting, in a 4-quart Dutch oven or large soup pot, combine the broth, red lentils, rosemary sprigs, and fresh grated ginger. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 12 minutes or until lentils are soft and broken down. Remove rosemary stems and discard.
- Add Roasted Vegetables to Pot: Squeeze the softened garlic cloves out of their skins into the soup pot. Transfer the roasted sweet potatoes, carrots, shallots, and bell pepper (stem removed) into the pot.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until smooth and creamy.
- Add Lemon Juice and Coconut Milk: Stir in 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 cup coconut milk, then blend again briefly to combine. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Warm the Soup: Return the soup to medium-low heat and warm through gently before serving.
- Serve: Ladle soup into bowls, drizzle with extra coconut milk, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and crack fresh pepper on top to garnish.
Notes
- This soup keeps well for up to 5 days stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, or freezes well for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe jar or bag.
- Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave in 30-second increments until warmed through.
- If soup thickens after cooling, loosen by adding additional vegan broth or coconut milk to reach desired consistency.
- For a spicier flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika when blending.
- Use vegetable broth to keep the recipe vegan and gluten free.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 7 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
