Easy Potato Soup Recipe
Are you looking for a comforting and delicious soup recipe that is perfect for chilly nights?
Look no further than this easy and creamy potato soup recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can have a warm and satisfying bowl of soup in no time.
What You Need & Why!
This recipe calls for four medium potatoes that are peeled and diced. Potatoes are a great source of complex carbohydrates, which can provide long-lasting energy and help you feel full for longer periods of time. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
To start the recipe, melt two tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add one small chopped onion and two minced garlic cloves to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
The aroma of the onion and garlic cooking will fill your kitchen and create a comforting and inviting atmosphere.
Next, add the diced potatoes and four cups of chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. This step allows the flavors to meld together and creates a creamy texture.
Time To Purée
Once the potatoes are tender, it's time to purée the soup. You can use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and purée until smooth. This will create a velvety texture that is perfect for slurping up with a spoon.
Finally, stir in half a cup of milk and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. This step adds a touch of creaminess to the soup and balances the savory flavors.
Go The Extra Mile
For an extra touch of flavor and texture, you can top the soup with chopped chives, grated cheese, crumbled bacon, or sour cream. These toppings add a burst of flavor and make the soup even more satisfying.
Perfect, Comfy & Heartwarming
This easy potato soup recipe is perfect for those who are short on time but still want a hearty and satisfying meal. It's also a great way to use up potatoes that may be starting to sprout in your pantry. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of potato soup tonight?
What Can You Serve With Soup?
When it comes to serving soup, it's important to choose side dishes that complement the flavors and textures of the soup without overpowering it.
Here are some ideas for light and delicious dishes that would pair well with potato soup:
Mixed Green Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing and healthy option to serve alongside potato soup. The fresh greens will add a pop of color to your meal and provide a nice contrast to the rich and creamy soup. Try my salad recipe here: Grill to Perfection: An Easy Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe.
Garlic Bread: A few slices of garlic bread are the perfect accompaniment to potato soup. The garlic flavor adds a nice depth of flavor to the meal, and the bread provides a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the velvety texture of the soup. Try my 2-Ingredient Crostini recipe here: Two-Ingredient Crostini: Delicious Sourdough Bread Snack in minutes.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, or zucchini are a healthy and flavorful side dish that would pair well with potato soup. The roasting process caramelizes the natural sugars in the vegetables, making them sweet and tender. Try my Granny Sue’s Green Bean recipe here: Granny Sue's Green Beans: A Delicious and Healthy Side Dish for Every Meal.
Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread with a spread of butter or olive oil would make a great side dish to enjoy with potato soup. The bread can be toasted or warmed up to make it extra crispy and delicious. Try my Easy Small Batch Dinner Rolls recipe here: Whip Up These Easy and Delicious Dinner Rolls Perfect for Two in Just an Hour!
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad with a variety of colorful fruits would make a great light and refreshing side dish. The sweetness of the fruit will provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the soup. Try my delicious Fruit Salad recipe here: Fresh and Fulfilling: A Simple Guide to Making a Healthy Low-Calorie Fruit Salad.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic grilled cheese sandwich is a comforting and satisfying side dish that pairs well with potato soup. The melted cheese and crispy bread provide a nice contrast to the creamy texture of the soup.
Steamed Vegetables: Steamed vegetables such as green beans, asparagus, or snow peas are a healthy and simple side dish that would pair well with potato soup. The steaming process helps to retain the natural flavors and nutrients of the vegetables. Try my other green bean recipe here: Transform Your Green Beans into a Mouthwatering Side Dish with Oven Baked Green Beans with Bacon and Onions.
These are just a few ideas for light and delicious side dishes that would pair well with potato soup. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures to find the perfect pairing for your taste buds.
The History Behind Potato Soup
Potato soup is a hearty and comforting dish that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for centuries. The origins of potato soup are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Europe, where potatoes have been a staple crop for centuries.
The humble potato was first introduced to Europe in the late 16th century, and it quickly became a popular crop due to its hardiness and ability to grow in a variety of soils and climates. As potatoes became more widely available, they were incorporated into many traditional European dishes, including soups and stews.
Potato soup became especially popular during the 19th century, when potatoes became a major food source for many Europeans due to their low cost and high nutritional value. In many rural areas, potato soup was a staple meal that was eaten several times a week.
During times of war and economic hardship, potato soup became an important part of many people's diets, as it was an affordable and filling meal that could be made with just a few simple ingredients. It was also a popular dish among immigrants who came to the United States from Europe, where they brought their traditional recipes with them.
Today, potato soup remains a beloved comfort food that is enjoyed by people all over the world. It can be made in a variety of ways, from a simple puree of potatoes and broth to a more complex soup with additional ingredients such as bacon, cheese, and herbs.
Whatever the recipe, potato soup remains a symbol of warmth, comfort, and home-cooked goodness.
How To Store Your Leftover Potato Soup
If you have leftover potato soup, you can store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use.
Here are some tips on how to store, freeze, and reheat your potato soup:
Storing:
Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before storing it.
Transfer the soup to an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag.
Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing:
Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before freezing it.
Transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag.
Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
Freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
If the soup is frozen, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating it.
To reheat the soup, transfer it to a pot and heat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through.
Alternatively, you can reheat the soup in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds until it is heated through.
If the soup is too thick, you can add a little bit of water or broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Once the soup is heated through, you can serve it with your favorite toppings and enjoy!
It's important to note that while you can store and freeze potato soup, the texture and consistency may change slightly upon reheating. However, it will still be delicious and satisfying, and a great way to enjoy the flavors of this comforting soup for days to come.
Great For Any Time of The Year
In conclusion, this easy potato soup recipe is a comforting and delicious meal that is perfect for any time of year. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a batch in no time and enjoy the warm and satisfying flavors of this classic soup. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch on a chilly day, this recipe is sure to hit the spot. So why not make it tonight for dinner and enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience? Your taste buds will thank you!