POTATO SOUP RECIPE

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into bite-sized cubes. This helps them cook faster and ensures a smoother texture in the soup once blended. Set the diced potatoes aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This step helps build the base of flavor for the soup.

3. Add the Potatoes and Broth:

Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine, making sure the potatoes are fully submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

4. Mash the Potatoes:

Once the potatoes are soft and cooked through, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash about half of the potatoes in the pot. This will give the soup a nice thick texture while still leaving some chunks for a hearty feel. If you prefer a smoother soup, you can blend the soup with an immersion blender directly in the pot, or transfer it to a regular blender in batches.

5. Add the Cream and Seasonings:

Stir in the heavy cream (or milk for a lighter version) to give the soup its creamy texture. Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using) to taste. Continue to cook on low heat for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning if needed.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Once your potato soup is hot and creamy, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your choice of toppings. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and fresh parsley make excellent additions. If you’re a fan of crispy bacon, crumble a couple of slices on top for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips for the Best Potato Soup:

• Choosing the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for potato soup because they break down easily when cooked, creating a creamy texture. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly different flavor, but avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they don’t mash as easily.
• Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor. A pinch of smoked paprika, some fresh chives, or even a dash of hot sauce can add a fun twist to the soup.
• Make It Vegan or Dairy-Free: To make this soup vegan, simply swap the butter for olive oil and use coconut milk or almond milk in place of the heavy cream. You can also use a dairy-free cheese substitute if you’d like to add a cheesy topping.
• Make it a Meal: This potato soup can easily be turned into a hearty meal by adding cooked chicken, sautéed spinach, or even some crispy croutons on top.
• Leftovers: This soup makes great leftovers! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before freezing, and reheat it gently when you’re ready to enjoy.

Why You’ll Love This Potato Soup:

1. Simple Ingredients: The ingredients for this soup are basic and inexpensive, making it a budget-friendly choice for a filling meal. Plus, it’s easy to find everything at your local grocery store.
2. Comforting and Hearty: There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of creamy potato soup. It’s perfect for chilly evenings when you’re craving something warm and filling.
3. Customizable: Whether you prefer your potato soup with a little extra creaminess or a lot of texture, this recipe is easy to adjust to your taste. You can play around with different toppings and seasonings to make it your own.
4. Quick to Prepare: Despite the creamy, rich texture, this potato soup comes together in just about 30-40 minutes, making it a great option for a weeknight dinner.

Final Thoughts:

Potato soup is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, creamy, and satisfying, while still being easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or enjoying it as a meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a hearty bowl of soup. So grab some potatoes, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a cozy, delicious homemade potato soup that will warm you up inside and out!

Enjoy!