Hearty Potato Soup
Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of warm and comforting potato soup on a chilly day. This hearty potato soup recipe is packed with flavor and will surely satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
For the soup:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For garnish:
- Chopped green onions
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped bacon
Steps
Step 1: Prepare the potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. Place them in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the onions and garlic
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the potatoes
Drain the potatoes and add them to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir to coat the potatoes with the butter. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes start to soften.
Step 4: Make the roux
Sprinkle the flour over the potatoes and stir well to combine. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. This will help thicken the soup.
Step 5: Add the broth and seasonings
Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 6: Blend the soup
Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, blend the soup in batches and be cautious of the hot liquid.
Step 7: Add the cheese and milk
Return the blended soup to the pot and place it back on the stove over low heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. Add the milk and stir until heated through.
Step 8: Serve and garnish
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions, additional shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped bacon. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations
This potato soup recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
Loaded Baked Potato Soup:
Add in some cooked and crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and sour cream as toppings to give your soup a loaded baked potato twist.
Vegetable Potato Soup:
Add in your favorite vegetables like carrots, celery, and corn to make it a heartier vegetable potato soup.
Spicy Potato Soup:
Add some heat to your soup by incorporating diced jalapenos or crushed red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount according to your desired level of spiciness.
Tips
- For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks of potatoes for added texture.
- If you prefer a thinner soup, add more vegetable broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
- To make the soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth and omit the bacon.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, to add a unique flavor to the soup.
- This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Conclusion
With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this hearty potato soup is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a bowl of warm and comforting potato soup!
FAQs
1. Can I freeze the potato soup?
Yes, you can freeze the potato soup. However, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after thawing. Make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
2. Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Absolutely! You can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth if you prefer. The choice of broth won’t significantly alter the flavor of the soup, so go ahead and use what you have on hand.
3. Can I substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative?
Yes, you can use a non-dairy milk alternative such as almond milk or soy milk. Make sure to choose an unsweetened variety to avoid any sweetness in the soup. The non-dairy milk will still provide a creamy texture and add richness to the soup.
4. How can I make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can increase the amount of flour used to make the roux. Start by adding an additional tablespoon of flour and cook it for an extra minute to ensure the raw flour taste is cooked off. Alternatively, you can also add a cornstarch slurry by mixing equal parts cornstarch and cold water and stirring it into the soup until desired thickness is achieved.
5. Can I add other herbs and spices?
Absolutely! This recipe serves as a great base, and you can experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. Some popular additions include rosemary, parsley, or even a pinch of nutmeg for a hint of warmth and earthiness.
