By The Sultana of Spice Carrie
Queenpin Herb Shop has OPENED and not only do we carry a large selection of herbs, we also have spices! Freshly ground from our vendor, these spices will knock your socks off!
We have 3 different types of paprika, lots of different chili powders, and several blends. We also have an “open and sniff” policy, so come experience the aromas!
We will be sharing recipes on a regular basis. For your weekend, a simple delicious soup featuring Smoked Paprika (we have Hot and Sweet Smoked Paprika):
Smoked Paprika Sweet Potato Soup
INGREDIENTS
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 shallot, minced
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (roughly 4 cups)
1 pear, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes (roughly 1 cup)
3 1/2 to 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
Blue cheese, garnish
coarsely chopped pecans, garnish
DIRECTIONS
Heat a pot over medium-low heat. Add olive oil, then shallots; saute until shallots are fragrant, 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in sweet potatoes, pears, 3 1/2 cups vegetable broth, the smoked paprika, pepper and salt. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer until potatoes are soft, 15 to 18 minutes.
Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a standard blender) and puree until smooth. Add more vegetable broth, if you prefer a thinner soup. Stir in heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Divide soup into two bowls. Top with crumbled blue cheese, pecans and freshly ground black pepper.