This German Potato Soup is warm, creamy, and perfect for chilly days. It’s filled with tender potatoes, savory onions, and a hint of spice that makes each spoonful comforting!
I love to serve it with some crusty bread for dipping—it’s like a cozy hug in a bowl. Plus, making this soup is a breeze; just chop, simmer, and enjoy the yumminess!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their creamy texture when cooked. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, try using cauliflower instead! Your soup will still have a lovely texture.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness to the soup. If you’re onion-sensitive, consider using leeks or shallots for a milder flavor, or omit them entirely.
German Sausage: Kielbasa is classic here, but feel free to substitute with turkey sausage, tofu sausage, or even cooked bacon for a different twist. You could also leave it out for a vegetarian option!
Milk/Cream: Whole milk lends creaminess, but you can switch to almond milk or coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Adjust the amount to your desired consistency.
How Do I Caramelize the Onions for Extra Flavor?
Caramelizing the onions adds a rich, sweet depth to your soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- In your pot, melt the butter over medium heat, then add chopped onions.
- Cook slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes until the onions become golden brown.
- Don’t rush this step! Low and slow enhances their natural sweetness.
What’s the Best Way to Thicken the Soup Without Losing Texture?
If you want a thicker soup while keeping some chunks, here’s a simple trick:
- After the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher to mash a portion of them, about half.
- This leaves some pieces whole for a perfect balance of creaminess and texture.
Enjoy the warmth and heartiness of your homemade German Potato Soup! It’s easy to make adjustments to suit your taste!
German Potato Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450g) potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken broth
- 8 oz (225g) German sausage (such as kielbasa or smoked sausage), sliced
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped for garnish
- Optional: a splash of vinegar or a small pinch of mustard for a slight tang
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious German Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, making a total of about 40 minutes. It’s an easy and enjoyable dish to whip up on a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, diced carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté everything for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. This helps build a flavorful base for your soup!
2. Add Potatoes and Broth:
Toss in the diced potatoes and the optional caraway seeds, stirring to combine with the sautéed veggies. Then, pour in the broth and bring the mix to a gentle boil.
3. Simmer Until Tender:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, which should take around 15-20 minutes. You can check doneness by piercing a potato with a fork; it should slide in easily.
4. Brown the Sausage:
While the soup is cooking, take a separate pan and lightly brown the sliced sausage over medium heat for extra flavor. This step adds a nice richness to your soup!
5. Mash Some Potatoes:
Once the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher to mash a portion of them in the pot. This will thicken the soup a bit while still maintaining some hearty chunks for texture.
6. Combine Everything:
Stir in the browned sausage and your choice of milk or cream. Warm the soup through gently, being careful not to boil after adding the milk—it keeps it nice and creamy!
7. Season to Taste:
Give your soup a taste and season with salt and pepper. If you like, add a splash of vinegar or a dash of mustard for a little tang that enhances the overall flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing each with fresh parsley or chives and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve it hot with hearty bread or rolls on the side for a comforting meal.
Enjoy your warming German Potato Soup! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Potatoes for This Soup?
Absolutely! While Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for their creaminess, you can also use red potatoes or fingerlings for a firmer texture. Just be aware that the final consistency of the soup may vary slightly.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and be sure to add a little liquid while warming to keep it creamy.
