Potato soup, a heartwarming and endlessly customizable dish, is a staple in kitchens around the world. This recipe from Allrecipes offers a rich and flavorful take on the classic, combining crispy bacon, tender vegetables, and a luxuriously creamy base.
Ingredients:
1 pound bacon, chopped
Directions:
1. Crisp Up the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon from the pot and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pot, add the diced celery and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Potatoes: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot with the softened vegetables. Pour in the chicken stock, ensuring all the ingredients are submerged. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Create the Roux: While the potatoes simmer, melt the butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
5. Incorporate the Cream: Slowly whisk the heavy cream into the roux, stirring until smooth and thickened. Season with dried tarragon and chopped fresh cilantro.
6. Bring it Together: Gently stir the creamy mixture into the pot with the cooked potatoes and vegetables. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Return the reserved crispy bacon to the pot and heat through for a final minute. Ladle the steaming potato soup into bowls and garnish with additional fresh cilantro (optional).
Nutrition Facts:
(Serving size: 1 cup)
Calories: 490
Please note: This is an approximate nutritional value based on the ingredients listed. Actual values may vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used.
Conclusion:
This absolutely ultimate potato soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its rich and creamy base, flavorful vegetables, and crispy bacon accents, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use a different type of milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with an equal amount of whole milk or a combination of milk and low-fat sour cream for a slightly lighter version. However, keep in mind that this will affect the final texture and richness of the soup.
2. What other vegetables can I add to this soup?
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables! Chopped carrots, diced bell peppers, or even a cup of frozen peas would be delicious additions.
3. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You may also want to add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor boost.
4. Can I freeze leftover potato soup?
Yes, potato soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe zip-top bags. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. What can I serve with potato soup?
Potato soup pairs well with a variety of sides. A simple green salad, crusty bread, or grilled cheese sandwiches would all be excellent choices.
