Peanut soup is a traditional Bolivian dish typically served at the start of a meal. It’s the perfect starter before the main course, which locals refer to as “El Segundo” (The Second).
The art of meals in Bolivia
Bolivian meals, even the simplest ones, are made up of three courses. More elaborate meals can include up to four. The courses are generally structured as follows:
- Appetizer: Usually a fresh vegetable salad. Common ingredients include lettuce, tomato, carrot, onion, and dressings.
- Soups: There are many options—wheat, rice, potatoes, pasta, vegetables—but the most popular is peanut soup.
- Main course or “Segundo”: A hearty dish that includes carbohydrates, proteins, and vegetables. This is the most complete and important part of the meal.
- Dessert: Popular choices include ice cream, gelatin, meringue, fruit salad in syrup, or any kind of sweet treat. Many people opt to skip dessert in favor of fresh fruit.
Peanut soup, the heart of Bolivian cuisine
Peanut soup is made with raw peanuts, broth, vegetables, herbs, pasta or rice, beef or chicken, salt, and pepper. It is garnished with thinly sliced fried potatoes and parsley. Toasting the peanuts is an essential step when preparing the soup; they must be thoroughly cooked by boiling, otherwise, they can cause stomach discomfort.
Thanks to its flavor, quality, creaminess, and popularity, this soup is deeply rooted in Bolivian culinary tradition.
This dish is so beloved that it has its own day of celebration—on February 11, Bolivia celebrates National Peanut Soup Day.
Peanut soup is consumed daily, often more than once a day. Its price depends on where you buy it, typically starting at 8 Bolivianos (less than 1 US dollar). It is especially popular in La Paz and Cochabamba, with the latter—considered Bolivia’s gastronomic capital—offering delicious, diverse, and even vegetarian versions.
Peanut soup isn’t the only thing made with peanuts. Since Bolivia is a peanut-producing country, the seed is widely used in various forms:
- Peanut sauce: a spicy chili-based condiment to accompany meals.
- Peanut juice: a sweet beverage made from peanuts.
- Peanut paste: a spreadable peanut-based cream.
- And many other peanut-based products.
You can find peanut soup almost anywhere—in restaurants, markets, street food stalls, or family homes. While some foreigners may not find the dish appealing, both travelers and locals alike have come to love it.
Peanut soup also has impressive nutritional qualities that make it a superfood. It’s rich in healthy fats, which provide energy, and also contains proteins, vitamins, and minerals.