Scandal Boggs ┃ Fashion, Beauty & Home

Dive into the heartwarming embrace of Virginia’s culinary heritage with a recipe that celebrates the nutty goodness of peanuts—Virginia Peanut Soup. This affordable and comforting dish not only pays homage to the state’s agricultural legacy but also stands as a symbol of flavor-packed simplicity in family meals. Join us as we explore the steps to create this nutty symphony of comfort, a dish that brings the richness of Virginia to your family’s table without breaking the bank.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 cup milk (whole or coconut milk for a creamy variation)
• Chopped green onions and chopped peanuts for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
2. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant.
3. Create Peanut Base: Add peanut butter to the pot and stir until it combines with the vegetables.
4. Thicken with Flour: Sprinkle flour over the peanut mixture and stir to create a roux.
5. Pour in Broth: Gradually pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Add Tomatoes and Corn: Stir in diced tomatoes and corn kernels. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Simmer Until Vegetables are Tender: Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
8. Add Milk for Creaminess: Pour in the milk (whole or coconut milk for a creamy variation) and stir until well incorporated. Simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
9. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
10. Serve Hot: Ladle the Virginia Peanut Soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped green onions and chopped peanuts.

Conclusion:

Virginia Peanut Soup is more than a bowl of comfort; it’s a bowlful of nutty warmth that brings the richness of Virginia to your family’s table. Whether served as a nourishing starter or a satisfying meal on its own, this soup encapsulates the affordability and flavor-packed simplicity of Virginia’s culinary traditions. So, savor the creamy peanut base, relish the tender vegetables, and let each spoonful transport you to the heart of Virginia’s cozy kitchens. Embrace the nutty comfort—a delicious and affordable taste of Virginia that adds a touch of Southern warmth to your family’s palate.