Potato soup is one of those dishes that can bring back memories of cozy family dinners, chilly winter nights, and the comforting warmth of home-cooked meals. For me, potato soup has always been a go-to comfort food. I remember my grandmother making her version on cold afternoons, the aroma filling the house and making everything feel just a bit warmer. This recipe for the Best Homemade Potato Soup is a nod to those comforting memories, combining simple, wholesome ingredients to create a dish that is both delicious and soul-soothing.
Ingredients:
6 medium Russet potatoes, cut into bite-size pieces
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
3 stalks celery, diced
6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
8 cups of vegetable broth or chicken broth
1 cup milk
½ cup heavy cream
1 tsp minced parsley
Salt and pepper to taste
3 tbsp flour (cornstarch can be substituted)
1 cup finely grated cheese of your choice
Detailed Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
- Cook the Bacon:
Start by adding the bacon to a large soup pot. Cook over medium heat until the bacon is crispy and the fat is rendered. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Pour off most of the bacon fat from the pot, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons to sauté the vegetables.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Sauté Onion, Celery, and Carrot:
Return the pot to medium heat and add the diced onion, celery, and sliced carrots. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.
- Add Potatoes and Seasonings:
Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you have other preferred seasonings (like thyme or rosemary), you can add them at this stage as well.
Step 3: Cook the Soup
- Add Broth:
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, making sure the liquid covers the vegetables. Bring the mixture to a low boil.
- Simmer:
Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes start to soften. The simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
- Prepare the Thickener:
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour (or cornstarch) and milk until smooth. This mixture will help thicken the soup.
- Add the Thickener:
Gradually add the milk and flour mixture to the pot, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup begins to thicken.
Step 5: Blend and Finish
- Blend a Portion of the Soup:
Carefully scoop out about ¼ to ½ of the soup and process it in a blender or food processor until smooth. This step creates a creamy base while still retaining some chunks for texture.
- Combine and Heat:
Slowly add the blended soup back into the pot, stirring gently to combine. Be careful as the hot soup can splash.
- Add Cream and Bacon:
Stir in the heavy cream to add richness. Add the crumbled bacon, reserving a little for garnish.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish and Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with the reserved bacon, a sprinkle of minced parsley, and a handful of finely grated cheese. Serve hot, with crusty bread on the side if desired.
Variations & Tips:
Vegetarian Version:
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth. You can add a smoky flavor by using smoked paprika or liquid smoke.
Vegan Adaptation:
For a vegan version, substitute the milk and heavy cream with plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk) and use vegan cheese. Use olive oil or vegan butter in place of bacon fat for sautéing the vegetables.
Additional Vegetables:
Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, peas, or leeks to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the soup.
Spice It Up:
If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. A dash of hot sauce can also add a nice kick.
Storage:
This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk to thin if necessary. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion:
This Best Homemade Potato Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl of comfort and warmth, perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender potatoes, savory bacon, and creamy broth makes it a satisfying dish that will bring joy to anyone who tastes it. The simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it an easy choice for a weeknight dinner, while its rich, complex flavors make it special enough for guests. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful soup, and let it become a cherished recipe in your kitchen.
