This Sweet Potato Chowder is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender sweet potatoes, crisp pancetta, and nutritious kale in a creamy broth. Seasoned with sage, nutmeg, and a touch of cream, it offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. Topped with crunchy pepitas, this chowder is perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 oz pancetta, diced
  
  

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  
  

• 1 sweet onion, diced
  
  

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
  
  

• ½ tsp salt
  
  

• ½ tsp pepper
  
  

• ¼ tsp ground sage
  
  

• ¼ tsp freshly ground nutmeg
  
  

• ½ cup chopped carrots
  
  

• 3 cups chopped sweet potato (about 1-inch pieces)
  
  

• 5 cups reduced-sodium chicken stock
  
  

• ⅓ cup cream, half-and-half, or coconut cream/milk
  
  

• 2 cups chopped Tuscan kale
  
  

• 3 tbsp roasted salted pepitas (for topping)

Directions:

1. Cook the Pancetta: In a large pot over medium-low heat, cook the diced pancetta until the fat is rendered and it becomes crisp, about 6–8 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
   
   

2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the butter. Once melted, stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, sage, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens, about 5 minutes.
   
   

3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped carrots and sweet potatoes, tossing to combine.
   
   

4. Simmer: Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. Cover and cook for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
   
   

5. Finish the Soup: Stir in the cream or coconut cream. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
   
   

6. Add Kale: A few minutes before serving, stir in the chopped kale. Allow it to wilt slightly, or simmer for another 10 minutes for a softer texture.
   
   

7. Serve: Ladle the chowder into bowls and top with the crispy pancetta and roasted pepitas.
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 320 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 35g
  
  

• Protein: 15g
  
  

• Fat: 15g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 5g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 30mg
  
  

• Sodium: 700mg
  
  

• Potassium: 800mg
  
  

• Fiber: 6g
  
  

• Sugar: 10g