Instant Pot Ground chicken and Sweet Potato Soup (Costa Rican Inspired)

Instant Pot Ground Meat and Sweet Potato Soup (Costa Rican Inspired)

By Unique Hammond

Yields: 4-6 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes (plus pressure release)

Ingredients:

• 2 packages (approximately 2 lbs) ground chicken or turkey breast

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 5 cloves garlic, minced (or finely crushed)

• 1 tsp olive oil

• 2 medium sweet potatoes, washed and cut into 1-inch cubes

• 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

• 2 cups soaked legumes (navy beans or red beans), soaked for a couple hours or simply rinsed, or 2 cans (15 oz each) drained.

• Optional toppings: hot sauce, fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime juice.

Instructions:

1. Sauté Aromatics:

   • If using oil, heat the olive oil in the Instant Pot using the "Sauté" function. If opting for an oil-free approach, add 1/4 cup of water to the pot and heat.

   • Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

2. Meat:

   • Add the ground chicken or turkey breast to the pot. Break it up into large chunks or leave whole.

3. Combine Ingredients:

   • Stir in the cooked legumes (or drained and rinsed canned beans).

   • Pour in the chicken broth and add the sea salt.

4. Pressure Cook:

   • Close the Instant Pot lid and ensure the steam release valve is in the "Sealing" position.

   • Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" or BEAN setting and set the cooking time to 5 minutes on high pressure.

   • Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a 20-minute natural pressure release. Then, carefully quick release any remaining pressure.

5. Add Sweet Potatoes: They can be added in all at once ( with meat etc) if you like them more soft…

   • Open the Instant Pot and add the cubed sweet potatoes.

   • Close the lid again. Select the "Pressure Cook" or "Manual" setting and set the cooking time to 1 minute on high pressure.

   • Allow for a 5 minute natural pressure release, then quick release any remaining pressure.

6. Serve:

   • Ladle the soup into bowls.

   • Top with your desired toppings, such as hot sauce, fresh cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Tips for Success:

• Bean Preparation: Soaking and cooking your own beans will yield the best flavor and texture. If using canned beans, drain them thoroughly to remove excess sodium.

• Spice it Up: Feel free to add other spices to enhance the flavor, such as cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika. or fresh ginger!!

• Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like chopped bell peppers, carrots, or celery for added nutrition and flavor.

• Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the sweet potatoes against the side of the pot with a spoon.

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Enjoy your delicious and comforting Instant Pot soup!