Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (1/4 stick)
• 3/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion (about 1/2 medium onion)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
• 4 star anise pods (or 2 teaspoons star anise pieces)
• 2 1/2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped
• 2 cans low fat coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 cup apple juice
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
• 6 tablespoons sour cream or crème fraîche

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. When it foams, add onion, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, and cook, stirring occasionally, until onion is softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in 2 teaspoons of the ginger and the star anise. Add the sweet potatoes and stir to combine.
3. Add the coconut milk and apple juicer and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, uncovered, until the sweet potatoes are completely tender, about 12 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Allow the soup to cool slightly. Remove the star anise pods and discard. Process the soup in batches in a blender or food processor until very smooth. Return to the pot and reheat over medium-low heat and add maple syrup. Season with additional salt and pepper as necessary. Stir in the heavy cream, if using.
5. Combine the sour cream and remaining 1/4 teaspoon ginger in a small bowl, stirring until well mixed.
6. Serve the soup in warmed bowls, topped with a dollop of ginger cream.

Notes

1. This is a big soup with a mouth filling, creamy textures and lots of exotic spices.  Pair it with a yummy German Riesling.

Preparing the Sweet Potato-Star Anise Soup with Ginger Cream soup

Preparing the Sweet Potato-Star Anise Soup with Ginger Cream soup

Preparing the Sweet Potato-Star Anise Soup with Ginger Cream soup

Preparing the Sweet Potato-Star Anise Soup with Ginger Cream soup

Dinner of Sweet Potato-Star Anise Soup with Ginger Cream Soup