This creamy potato soup recipe delivers the ultimate comfort on cold days. It’s a hearty, flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal, easily customizable with toppings like cheese, green onions, and sour cream.
The Appeal of Potato Soup
Potato soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a classic for a reason. The creamy texture, rich flavor, and simple preparation make it a go-to for home cooks. It mirrors the experience of a loaded baked potato in liquid form, offering a similar level of satisfaction. The recipe’s versatility allows for easy adaptation to personal tastes, making it a recurring favorite in many households.
Making the Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
The soup’s foundation lies in a straightforward process:
- Prep the Vegetables: Cut potatoes into roughly ¾-inch chunks, ensuring even cooking. Finely chop onions, carrots, and celery for a flavorful base.
- Sauté and Build Flavor: Soften the onions and celery in a pot before creating a roux by stirring in flour until coated. Gradually add broth while stirring to prevent clumps.
- Simmer to Perfection: Introduce potatoes, carrots, garlic, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Blend for Texture: Partially blend the soup using an immersion blender or transfer half to a standard blender for a smoother consistency. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
- Finish with Cream and Season: Stir in cream and simmer for another 5 minutes. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavor, and additional seasoning adjusts to taste. Add water if the soup becomes too thick.
Customizing with Toppings
The true enjoyment comes from the toppings. Popular options include sour cream, shredded cheddar, thinly sliced green onions, freshly ground black pepper, and homemade croutons. Serve alongside crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Freezing
Leftover potato soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It will thicken upon cooling, so add water when reheating. Freezing is not recommended, as it can result in a grainy texture.
This recipe provides a simple, satisfying meal that embodies comfort food at its finest. Its adaptability and ease of preparation make it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a warm, flavorful dish on a cold day.
