tomato sage and sweet potato soup

Fresh sage and an easy, wintery soup.

I’m often pulled in two different directions when developing recipes for Rise Shine Cook. On the one hand, I want practical and easy weeknight dinners to meet the demands of regular life. On the other hand, I fantasize about elegance, whimsical garnishes, and meals that defy the stubborn myth that plant-based cuisine is basic and underwhelming.

Striking a balance between the two is my favorite thing to do. There are moments when one aspect takes the lead, but ultimately, both elements are always present. This delicate dance between ease of preparation, flavor, and visuals is the driving force behind every recipe I create.

Delicious, doable, and also a little refined.

I have an unwavering conviction that plant-based meals can be as impressive and interesting (both in taste and appearance) as their omnivorous and vegetarian counterparts. This culinary space is where my passion and creativity burn brightest.

This week’s recipe results from that slow creative burn I’ve been feeling— an easy yet elevated tomato sage and sweet potato soup. It’s nutritious, beautiful, and tasty.

Sage

It’s been particularly chilly and grey in Taipei these last few weeks and I’ve been nursing my mood by carving out time in the kitchen to play with beautiful ingredients. Adding an extra garnish or putting a little effort into plating instantly brightens the dinner table and my disposition.