The secret to a delicious cassava soup is cooking the cassava in the same broth used to prepare the chicken. This allows the cassava to absorb all those savory flavors before being blended into a naturally creamy base. A little paprika adds warmth and color, while crispy pepperoni sausage or bacon brings extra depth to every spoonful.
Finished with fresh chopped chives or cilantro, this homemade chicken and cassava soup is simple, filling, and full of comforting flavor. Serve it hot with toasted bread for a delicious meal the whole family can enjoy.
Why You'll Love This Cassava Soup
Naturally creamy: Cooked cassava creates a thick, smooth broth without needing heavy cream.
Full of flavor: Chicken broth, garlic, onion, paprika, and smoked sausage make every spoonful delicious.
Hearty and satisfying: Chicken and cassava provide a filling combination for lunch or dinner.
Easy to customize: Use bacon instead of pepperoni sausage, or choose your favorite chicken pieces.
Perfect for meal prep: The soup can be prepared ahead and reheated when needed.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Brazilian-inspired
Method: Pressure Cooking
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
1 kg cassava (yuca), peeled and cut into chunks
500 g chicken breast or boneless chicken pieces
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 pepperoni sausage or 100 g bacon, chopped
5 garlic cloves, crushed and divided
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons paprika or annatto powder, divided
Black pepper, to taste
Salt, to taste
Fresh chives or cilantro, chopped
Water, as needed
How to Make Cassava Soup with Chicken
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Place the chicken in a bowl and season with one crushed garlic clove, 1 teaspoon of paprika, black pepper, and salt to taste. Mix well so the seasoning coats the chicken evenly.
Heat the olive oil in a pressure cooker over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until lightly golden on all sides.
Step 2: Cook and Shred the Chicken
Pour enough water into the pressure cooker to cover the chicken. Secure the lid and cook for approximately 15 minutes after the cooker reaches pressure.
Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release safely according to your cooker's instructions. Remove the chicken and reserve the cooking liquid.
Once cool enough to handle, shred the chicken into small pieces using two forks. Set aside.
Tip: Boneless chicken breast is convenient because it shreds easily, but chicken thighs also work well and provide a richer flavor.
Step 3: Cook and Blend the Cassava
Peel the cassava and cut it into medium-sized pieces. Remove the tough central fibrous core from each piece before cooking.
Add the cassava to the pressure cooker with the reserved chicken broth. Add a little salt if needed, then close the lid and cook for approximately 15 minutes after the cooker reaches pressure.
Turn off the heat and allow the pressure to release completely.
Blend the cooked cassava with its cooking liquid using an immersion blender until the broth becomes smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the cassava and some broth to a countertop blender, working in batches if necessary.
Tip: Adjust the amount of broth to achieve your preferred consistency. Add more liquid for a thinner soup or use less for a thicker, creamier cassava broth.
Step 4: Cook the Sausage and Aromatics
While the cassava cooks, finely chop the pepperoni sausage or bacon.
Place it in a skillet over low to medium heat and cook until golden and slightly crispy, allowing its fat to render.
Add the remaining chopped onion and crushed garlic. Stir in the remaining teaspoon of paprika and a little black pepper.
Cook until the onion becomes soft and fragrant. If the sausage or bacon does not release enough fat, add a tablespoon of olive oil to help sauté the aromatics.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the blended cassava broth to the pressure cooker or a large cooking pot over medium heat.
Add the shredded chicken and the cooked sausage, onion, and garlic mixture. Stir thoroughly to distribute the ingredients throughout the creamy broth.
Add a little more water or reserved chicken stock if the soup is too thick. Bring everything to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Taste and adjust the salt and black pepper as needed. Turn off the heat and stir in the freshly chopped chives or cilantro.
Step 6: Serve the Cassava Soup
Ladle the hot cassava soup with chicken into serving bowls. Finish with extra chopped chives or cilantro for a fresh, aromatic touch.
Serve immediately with toasted bread, preferably seasoned with a little olive oil and oregano. Enjoy this rich, comforting homemade soup!
Helpful Tips for the Best Cassava Soup
Choose good-quality cassava: Fresh cassava should be firm and suitable for cooking. Avoid cassava that shows signs of spoilage.
Remove the fibrous center: The tough central strand can affect the texture of the finished soup.
Use the chicken cooking liquid: It gives the cassava broth a deeper, more savory flavor.
Blend carefully: Allow the pressure to release fully before opening the cooker. Blend hot liquids in small batches and follow your blender's safety instructions.
Control the thickness: Cassava naturally thickens as it cooks and cools. Keep some extra stock or water available for adjusting the consistency.
Don't burn the garlic: Cook the onion and garlic gently with the sausage to develop their flavor without making them bitter.
Substitutions and Variations
Chicken: Boneless chicken breast is easy to shred, while chicken thighs give the soup a richer taste.
Pepperoni sausage: If pepperoni sausage is unavailable, use chopped bacon or another smoked sausage.
Fresh herbs: Chives and cilantro both work beautifully. Choose whichever flavor you prefer.
Paprika: Regular paprika adds a mild, warm flavor. Annatto powder can be used for a deeper golden-orange color.
Spice level: Add a little chili powder or fresh chili if you prefer a spicier soup.
What to Serve with Cassava Soup with chicken recipe
This creamy cassava soup is filling enough to serve on its own, but a few simple sides make it even better.
Toasted bread seasoned with olive oil and oregano
Garlic bread or homemade dinner rolls
A fresh green salad
Lightly toasted baguette slices
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in suitable airtight containers for approximately 2 months for best quality. Leave a little room in the container for expansion.
Reheating: Warm the soup gently in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring regularly. Add a splash of water or chicken broth because cassava thickens as it cools. Heat until steaming hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cassava soup without a pressure cooker?
Yes. You can cook the chicken and cassava separately in regular pots. Simmer until the chicken is fully cooked and the cassava is very tender. Cooking times will vary depending on the size and age of the cassava pieces.
Can I use frozen cassava?
Yes. Frozen peeled cassava is a convenient alternative. Check the package instructions and cook until completely tender before blending.
Can I replace the pepperoni sausage with bacon?
Absolutely. Bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor and releases fat that can be used to sauté the onion and garlic.
Why is my cassava soup too thick?
Cassava contains a lot of starch, which naturally thickens the broth. Simply add warm water or chicken stock a little at a time until you reach your preferred consistency.
Can I prepare cassava soup ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the soup in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. Reheat gently and add extra broth or water if it becomes too thick.
Is cassava soup served hot or cold?
Cassava soup with chicken is traditionally enjoyed hot. Serving it warm allows you to enjoy its creamy texture and savory flavors.
Final Thoughts
Cassava Soup with Chicken is a comforting homemade meal that combines tender chicken, creamy cassava, smoky sausage, and fragrant herbs in one delicious bowl. Whether you prepare it for a family lunch or a cozy dinner, this hearty soup is a wonderful way to enjoy the satisfying flavor of cassava. Serve it with toasted bread and fresh herbs for a simple meal everyone can enjoy.
More Delicious Recipes to Try
If you enjoy comforting homemade meals and delicious recipes, here are a few more ideas to explore:
Coconut Custard with Plum Syrup – Enjoy a creamy coconut dessert topped with sweet and tangy plum syrup. It's a lovely way to finish a homemade meal.
Healthy Chicken Avocado Salad – Looking for something lighter? Try this refreshing salad made with chicken and creamy avocado.
Explore More Recipes – Discover more delicious homemade recipes, cooking inspiration, and ideas for your next meal.
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