Scandal Boggs ┃ Fashion, Beauty & Home

Embark on a culinary journey through the heart of Virginia with a dish that mirrors the state’s rich history and embodies the warmth of family meals—Virginia Peanut Soup. Bursting with nutty richness and a touch of Southern flair, this recipe offers a comforting and affordable option for gatherings or cozy dinners. Join us as we explore the steps to create this delightful soup that has been gracing Virginia tables for generations.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Virginia peanuts, unsalted
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 cup sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 cup whole milk
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley or scallions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Roast Virginia Peanuts: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roast the Virginia peanuts on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool, then roughly chop.
2. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir continuously for 2-3 minutes, creating a roux.
4. Pour Broth and Add Seasonings: Gradually pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to avoid lumps. Add the bay leaf, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Incorporate Sweet Potatoes and Tomatoes: Add diced sweet potatoes and tomatoes to the pot. Simmer until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Blend Peanut Butter: In a small bowl, whisk the peanut butter with a ladle of the hot soup until smooth. Pour the peanut butter mixture back into the pot, stirring well.
7. Finish with Milk: Pour in the whole milk, stirring to combine. Simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf. Serve the Virginia Peanut Soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or scallions.

Virginia Peanut Soup is more than a dish; it’s a journey through the comforting flavors of Virginia’s culinary heritage. Whether shared during a holiday meal, Sunday supper, or as a cozy weeknight dinner, this soup brings forth the nutty richness of Virginia peanuts in a bowl. So, savor the creamy elegance, relish the warmth of the nutty broth, and let each spoonful envelop you in the timeless tradition of Virginia’s family meals. Embrace the nutty legacy on every spoonful—a delicious and affordable taste of Virginia that reflects the heart and soul of the Old Dominion.