The specialty ingredients in this african influenced soup are worth the hunt. Makes about 4 servings.

Ready

• 3 Tbsp groundnut paste*
• 1 ½ quarts vegetable stock
• 2 Tbsp tomato paste
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 2 slices of fresh ginger root
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or¼ tsp dried)
• 1 bay leaf
• Cayenne pepper
• 1 ½ cups diced white yams*
• 10 small okras, trimmed (optional)
• Salt

Set

• Large saucepan
• Medium bowl
• Spatula
• Whisk

Go

1. Place groundnut paste and tomato paste in a bowl.
2. Whisk in stock to create a smooth paste.
3. Add paste to sauce pan over heat.
4. Add onion, ginger, thyme, bay leaf, cayenne pepper, and remaining stock.
5. Slowly bring up to a simmer and cook for about an hour. Whisking frequently to prevent from sticking.
6. Add white yams and , if using, okra. Simmer until vegetables are tender.
7. Serve.

What you should know

*Groundnut is another name for peanuts. You can find the groundnut paste, which is not as sweet as regular peanut butter, in health food stores. If you are in a pinch you can use peanut butter.

*White yams can be found in Latin food markets.