Potato Soup

Potato soup is the epitome of comfort food, offering warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. This creamy, hearty soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a simple yet delicious meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a classic potato soup that will become a staple in your home.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme (optional)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
• Sour cream (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Peel and dice the potatoes into small, even cubes.
• Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
• Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then crumble and set aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables:

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. Make the Soup Base:

• Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes to cook the flour.
• Slowly add the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring to combine and prevent lumps.
• Add the diced potatoes to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.

4. Blend the Soup:

• Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a blender, then return it to the pot.
• If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup, leaving some potato pieces intact.

5. Add Dairy and Cheese:

• Stir in the heavy cream and milk until well combined.
• Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
• Season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using) to taste.

6. Serve:

• Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
• Garnish with crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
• Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Potato Soup

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this soup because they break down well, creating a creamy texture.
2. Blend to Your Liking: Adjust the texture by blending more or less of the soup. If you like it chunky, blend less; for a smoother soup, blend more.
3. Use Quality Broth: A good-quality chicken or vegetable broth enhances the flavor significantly. Homemade broth is even better if you have it.
4. Adjust the Creaminess: For a richer soup, you can increase the amount of heavy cream or add a bit more cheese. For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

This potato soup recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or a comforting lunch. It’s simple to make and incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Enjoy your warm, creamy potato soup!