In my kitchen, nothing brings warmth and comfort like a bowl of delicious potato soup. This Homemade German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) is rich, creamy, and perfect for a chilly evening. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, it comes together with ease, making it a wonderful choice for busy weeknights or as a delightful weekend treat.
What makes this soup special is its velvety texture and the heartwarming flavors of fresh vegetables. It’s a fantastic way to showcase simple ingredients while creating something comforting that appeals to everyone, including those following a dairy-free lifestyle.
Why you’ll love this
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Creamy texture without the dairy.
- Flavorful and satisfying, ideal for the whole family.
- Budget-friendly, using simple ingredients.
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals.
“Rich flavor, simple steps, and weeknight-fast — the kind of recipe everyone asks for again.”
What ingredients do I need for homemade german potato soup?
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup dairy-free cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or chives) for garnish
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Potatoes: Starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold work best for creaminess.
- Broth: You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for added flavor.
- Cream: Use any dairy-free cream of your choice, such as coconut cream or cashew cream.
How do I make homemade german potato soup?
This soup is crafted with simple steps, focusing on wholesome ingredients to create a comforting dish.
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery, and stir for a few minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave it chunky if preferred.
- Stir in the dairy-free cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Pro Tip: For a little extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika while cooking.
How should I serve it?
Serve this soup warm in bowl garnished with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Drizzling a little olive oil on top adds an extra layer of richness.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep! Allow it to cool before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until steaming hot, stirring occasionally for even heating.
How do I fix common issues?
If you find the soup too thick, simply add more vegetable broth until you reach your desired consistency. For a bland flavor, try enhancing it with additional seasoning, like a touch of salt or pepper. If it seems overcooked, blend it to achieve a creamy consistency.
Tips for success
- Cut the vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Sauté the onions until they’re golden to deepen the flavor.
- Adjust seasoning after blending to account for the pureeing process.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to add other vegetables like leeks or spinach for additional nutrition. For a heartier version, include cooked lentils or beans. Experiment with your spice rack by adding herbs like thyme or bay leaf for a slight twist on the classic flavor.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables?
Absolutely! This soup is versatile; feel free to incorporate other hearty vegetables, such as parsnips or potatoes, depending on your preference.
What can I use to thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you could add a roux or a slurry of cornstarch mixed with a little water, or simply blend more potatoes.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, using vegetable broth and dairy-free cream ensures that the soup remains gluten-free. Always check labels if you’re sensitive.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Certainly! For a non-vegetarian twist, consider adding cooked and shredded chicken or bacon bits for added protein and flavor.
What can I use instead of dairy-free cream?
You may opt for unsweetened coconut milk, cashew cream, or even blended silken tofu as substitutes to maintain that creamy texture.
Homemade German Potato Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery, and stir for a few minutes.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave it chunky if preferred.
- Stir in the dairy-free cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.