German Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, this German Potato Soup recipe is just for you. A classic dish that blends the hearty texture of potatoes with aromatic herbs and vegetables, this soup is perfect for any occasion, especially on chilly days. Whether you're a fan of traditional German cuisine or just looking for a new go-to soup recipe, this will surely become a favorite. Stick around to learn how to make this simple yet delicious dish from scratch, with variations and tips to make it your own!

this Recipe

What is German Potato Soup?

German Potato Soup, or "Kartoffelsuppe," is a traditional dish that originates from Germany. It's typically made with starchy potatoes, fresh vegetables like carrots and celery, and flavorful herbs such as marjoram and bay leaves. This soup is incredibly versatile, allowing you to add your personal touch with vegan sausage, dairy-free cream, or fresh parsley for garnish. Thick, creamy, and bursting with flavor, German Potato Soup is a hearty meal that's perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a comforting snack on a cold day. Now, let’s dive into the details!

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Ingredients List for German Potato Soup

To make the perfect bowl of German Potato Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Basic Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon oil: This will be used to sauté the vegetables, adding a rich base to the soup.
• 1 onion, diced: Provides a slightly sweet and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic adds depth to the flavor and gives the soup a robust, savory note.
• 2 stalks of celery, diced or ½ small celery root: Celery adds a subtle bitterness that balances the richness of the potatoes and cream.
• 2 medium carrots, diced: Carrots provide sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
• 2 pounds (900 g) of potatoes, chopped: Potatoes are the heart of this soup, giving it body and creaminess once blended.
• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram: A classic herb used in many German recipes, offering an earthy and slightly minty flavor.
• A pinch of nutmeg: Nutmeg adds warmth and enhances the creamy elements of the soup.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
• 4 cups (1000 ml) vegetable broth or water: This forms the liquid base of the soup, giving it flavor and richness.
• 2 whole bay leaves (optional): Bay leaves provide an aromatic depth that brings out the flavors of the other ingredients.

Optional Ingredients:

• ⅓ cup (80 g) dairy-free cream: For a creamier texture, especially if you prefer a vegan or dairy-free option.
• Fresh parsley to garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to the soup.
• Vegan sausage, sliced (optional): For added protein and a savory bite, vegan sausage is a great addition.

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about German Potato Soup is how adaptable it is to different dietary needs and preferences. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can try:

• Potatoes: While starchy potatoes like russets are ideal, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier texture or red potatoes if you prefer a firmer bite.
• Vegetable broth vs. water: Using vegetable broth instead of water will give the soup a richer, more flavorful base. However, if you’re in a pinch, water will work just fine, especially when seasoned properly.
• Dairy-free cream: If you're not following a vegan diet, you can use regular heavy cream, sour cream, or even crème fraîche for a rich, velvety finish. For dairy-free options, coconut cream or cashew cream work wonderfully.
• Vegan sausage: If you’re not vegan, feel free to use traditional sausage like kielbasa or bratwurst. You can also leave out the sausage entirely for a lighter soup.
• Spices: Swap out the marjoram for thyme or rosemary if you prefer a different herb profile. You can also add a touch of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps for a seamless cooking experience:

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by dicing the onion, carrots, celery (or celery root), and potatoes. Mince the garlic cloves and set everything aside.
2. Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Garlic and Vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.
4. Incorporate the Potatoes and Seasonings: Add the chopped potatoes, dried marjoram, nutmeg, and bay leaves (if using). Stir to coat the vegetables in the spices.
5. Add Broth or Water: Pour in the vegetable broth or water, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
6. Cook the Soup: Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes and carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.
7. Blend the Soup: Remove the bay leaves, then use an immersion blender to blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender.
8. Stir in the Cream: Once the soup is blended, stir in the dairy-free cream for added richness. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
9. Add the Vegan Sausage (Optional): If you're using vegan sausage, slice it and add it to the pot. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to warm through the sausage.
10. Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve your soup hot, with crusty bread on the side.

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How to Cook German Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking German Potato Soup may seem involved, but the steps are straightforward and manageable even for beginner cooks. Here's a condensed guide:

1. Prep your veggies: Dicing, mincing, and chopping are the first things you'll do. Get all your ingredients ready.
2. Sauté: Heat oil and sauté onions, followed by garlic and vegetables to develop a deep flavor.
3. Simmer: Add potatoes, spices, and liquid. Bring to a boil, then let it simmer until the vegetables are soft.
4. Blend: Once everything is tender, blend the soup to create a creamy texture.
5. Finish with cream and sausage: Add your dairy-free cream and sausage for extra richness, and enjoy!

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-blending the soup: If you over-blend the soup, it can become too gummy. Blend it just enough to create a creamy texture without losing the potato chunks entirely.
• Skipping the sauté: Don’t skip the step where you sauté the onions, garlic, and other veggies. This adds a rich depth of flavor that boiling alone can’t provide.
• Not seasoning properly: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning. Potatoes absorb a lot of salt, so you may need more than you initially think.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

When it comes to serving German Potato Soup, presentation can make the dish even more appealing. Here are some ideas:

• Serve in rustic bowls: A hearty soup like this looks best in rustic, earthenware bowls or ceramic soup dishes.
• Garnish generously: Fresh parsley, a sprinkle of nutmeg, or freshly cracked black pepper can elevate the presentation.
• Add a swirl of cream: For extra flair, swirl some cream or dairy-free cream on top before serving.
• Side of crusty bread: Serve the soup with warm, crusty bread or pretzels for dipping.

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German Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• For extra flavor: Try adding a splash of white wine to the soup while it's simmering.
• Make it ahead: This soup stores well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.
• Freeze for later: German Potato Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, but sweet potatoes will give the soup a different flavor profile. They’ll add a natural sweetness that may need balancing with extra salt or savory spices.

2. How long does German Potato Soup last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, it will last up to 4-5 days in the fridge.

3. Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

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Conclusion

German Potato Soup is a versatile, hearty, and flavorful dish that you can easily adapt to your taste and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer it with vegan sausage or traditional cream, this recipe will deliver a satisfying meal that warms the heart and soul. Follow the step-by-step guide, avoid common mistakes, and use our serving tips to create the perfect bowl of soup every time. Try it today, and don’t forget to make enough to share!

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