Potato soup
Potato Soup – A Classic and Comforting Recipe
Potato soup is one of those recipes that reminds us of hearty meals from childhood, when tempting aromas intertwined with stories shared at the table. It is a simple yet soulful dish, perfect for enjoying on cool days or when we feel the need for something comforting. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized according to everyone's preferences.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (approximately 600 g)
- 1 small celery (approximately 100 g)
- 1 large carrot (approximately 100 g)
- 1 green onion (or 1 white onion, your choice)
- 200 g green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1-2 tablespoons of Delikat or salt (to taste)
- 1 l water
- 2 tablespoons of bell pepper paste
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
Preparation:
1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the onion, celery, and carrot. Wash them well under cold running water. Chop the onion finely and dice the celery and carrot. These vegetables will form the aromatic base of your soup.
2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil (or butter) and heat over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté the vegetables for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and release their aromas. This step will add depth and flavor to the soup.
3. Adding the potatoes and beans: Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform-sized cubes (about 2-3 cm) for even cooking. Add the potatoes and chopped beans to the pot. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
4. Boiling: Pour 1 liter of water into the pot and add the Delikat or salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer covered for about 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. It is important not to overcook the soup, as the vegetables can become too soft.
5. Adding the pastes: Once the potatoes are ready, add the bell pepper paste and tomato paste, stirring well. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes for the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
6. Finishing the soup: When the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and add the lemon juice, chopped parsley, and lovage. These fresh herbs will add a burst of freshness and a splendid taste to your soup.
Serving: Potato soup is delicious served hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or croutons. You can add a teaspoon of sour cream for extra creaminess or a bit of chili if you prefer a spicier flavor.
Possible variations:
1. Add meat: You can turn the soup into a heartier dish by adding meat (e.g., diced chicken breast or beef) cooked along with the vegetables.
2. Vegetarian soup: Omit the Delikat and opt for a mix of spices (salt, pepper, turmeric) and fresh vegetables for a vegetarian version.
3. Soup with grains: Add a handful of rice or quinoa to make the soup more filling.
Nutritional benefits:
Potato soup is an excellent source of healthy carbohydrates, vitamins (especially vitamin C from potatoes and lemon), and fiber due to the vegetables used. It is a hearty and nutritious meal, ideal for the whole family.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen green beans are perfect for this recipe. Make sure to add them at the beginning of the boiling process for even cooking.
- How long does the soup last? Potato soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later consumption.
- Can I adapt the recipe based on the season? Absolutely! Use seasonal vegetables like zucchini or carrots to vary the flavors and textures.
Potato soup is not just a delicious dish, but also a story that can be shared at the table, bringing joy and warmth to the hearts of loved ones. Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 4 potatoes, 1 carrot, green beans, green onion, a delicate vegetable mix, 1 lemon, bell pepper broth, tomato broth, ideal for green parsley.
