This simple potato soup recipe is a comforting and versatile dish that can be used as an appetizer, or you can add various toppings to make it a wholesome meal. The technique of creating a roux at the beginning of the recipe serves two essential purposes. First, it thickens the soup, giving it a creamy and velvety consistency. Second, it adds a fragrant richness and depth of flavor to the base.
The combination of diced potatoes, carrots, and celery contributes to both the texture and taste of the soup. Potatoes lend creaminess and body, while carrots and celery bring a hint of sweetness and a pleasant aromatic crunch. Partially blending the soup with a blender strikes a balance between a smooth, creamy base and the satisfying presence of potato and vegetable chunks.
The addition of milk not only adds creaminess but also mellows out the flavors, creating a balanced blend. It’s important to note that milk should be added towards the end of the cooking process to prevent curdling.
To elevate your simple potato soup and make a whole meal out of it, feel free to get creative with toppings and mix-ins. Crispy bacon bits, dollops of tangy sour cream, or a generous sprinkling of shredded cheese can take your potato soup to the next level. These additions not only introduce exciting textures but also offer a delightful contrast to the creamy base. You can even experiment with fresh herbs like chives or thyme for a burst of freshness. Customizing your potato soup allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences and make each bowl uniquely delicious.
This simple potato soup is the embodiment of comfort and warmth, making it a perfect choice for chilly days or when you crave a wholesome, homemade meal. Its straightforward preparation and use of everyday ingredients make it an accessible culinary experience for all occasions. Enjoy the simplicity, heartiness, and versatility of this simple potato soup.
Simple Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 4 russet potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until they become fragrant and translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic and stir continuously for another 2 minutes. This creates a flavorful roux, which will thicken the soup.
- Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir them together with the roux mixture for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This step creates a creamy base while leaving some chunks of potatoes and vegetables for texture. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and then return it to the pot.
- Pour in the milk and stir until well combined. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to heat the milk through.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the simple potato soup hot.
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