| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 450 | 30g | 18g | 30g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 6g | 3g | 12g | 1.2g |
If there’s one recipe that embodies the cozy comfort of home-cooked meals and the warm, welcoming vibes of New York’s diverse culinary scene, it has to be Potato Soup. This dish is incredibly close to my heart, and every spoonful transports me back to chilly New York winters where the only solution was a bowl of something hot and nourishing. Potato Soup isn’t just another recipe; it’s a nostalgic reminder of those moments when life slows down, and every bite is a little piece of happiness.
Versatile and Heartwarming
What I love most about Potato Soup is its versatility. Whether you’re looking for a simple dinner or a hearty addition to a larger meal, this soup delivers. It’s incredibly filling on its own, and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Think about serving it with a fresh side salad or a crusty piece of artisan bread. It’s also fantastic as a precursor to a more elaborate dinner. If you love soups like broccoli cheddar or clam chowder, you’ll find that Potato Soup has a similar comforting richness but with its own unique flair.
Healthy Comfort Food
While Potato Soup feels indulgent, it’s also packed with nutritious ingredients. Potatoes are rich in vitamins C and B6, as well as potassium, which benefits heart health. Adding in elements like garlic and onions not only boosts flavor but adds a punch of immune-boosting antioxidants. Using chicken broth as a base provides a good amount of protein, and if you swap in low-sodium broth, you can control the salt content to fit your dietary needs. The inclusion of dairy like whole milk and heavy cream adds calcium, but can be adjusted with lighter dairy alternatives if you’re watching your calorie intake.
The shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream round out the flavors, giving the soup a rich, creamy texture that’s hard to resist. And let’s not forget the crispy bacon, which adds an indispensable smoky depth. For a healthier twist, you can opt for turkey bacon or even go bacon-free without compromising too much on flavor. Finally, a sprinkle of green onions adds a fresh, tangy contrast that perks up the entire dish.
Similar to classics like leek and potato soup or even a creamy cauliflower soup, Potato Soup has that universal appeal—it’s the kind of dish that brings people together. Its simplicity allows for easy customization. For a spicy kick, you might add a dash of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapenos. If you’re a fan of more complex flavors, a drizzle of truffle oil could elevate the entire experience.
So, the next time you’re in the mood for something warm and inviting, give this Potato Soup a try. It’s a dish that’s not only delicious but full of wholesome ingredients that will nourish your body and soul. After all, great food is about more than just taste—it’s about creating experiences and memories that last a lifetime.
What You’ll Need
Method
Step One
Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even-sized cubes. Finely chop the yellow onion and mince the garlic cloves. Slice the green onions thinly, and set them aside for garnish.
Step Two
In a large pot, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until they are crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and place it on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set it aside.
Step Three
In the same pot with the bacon drippings, add the unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
Step Four
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the all-purpose flour and cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes to form a roux.
Step Five
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until the mixture is smooth. Bring the broth to a simmer and then add the diced potatoes. Cook the potatoes in the broth until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Step Six
Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. For a chunkier soup, blend less. For a smoother soup, blend more.
Step Seven
Stir in the whole milk, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Continue to cook over low heat until the cheese is melted and the soup is thoroughly heated, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step Eight
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade potato soup!
