Are you craving a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal? Look no further than this authentic Polish Potato Soup recipe! This creamy, potato-packed soup is a classic for a reason – it's incredibly satisfying, perfect for a chilly evening, and surprisingly quick to make. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is designed to be easily followed and yields a delicious bowl of homemade goodness. This is one of the best recipes for a healthy and quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 8 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Kielbasa (Polish sausage), cooked and sliced (for added protein and flavor)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a delicious base of flavor for your soup.
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Add potatoes and broth: Add the cubed potatoes, broth, marjoram, thyme, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Blend (optional): For a smoother, creamier soup, carefully use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup to your desired consistency. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer portions of the soup to a regular blender, blend, and then return it to the pot. Remember to vent the lid to avoid pressure buildup.
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Stir in cream and seasoning: If using, stir in the heavy cream or milk. Season with salt to taste. Adding the cream at the end helps retain its richness.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a slice of kielbasa, if desired.
Tips for the Best Polish Potato Soup:
- Use good quality broth: The broth forms the foundation of the flavor, so don't skimp on this ingredient!
- Don't overcook the potatoes: Overcooked potatoes can become mushy. Aim for tender but not falling-apart potatoes.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preference. A pinch of garlic powder can also elevate the flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner.
Variations:
- Spicy Polish Potato Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Polish Potato Soup: Ensure you use vegetable broth and omit the kielbasa.
- Creamy Polish Potato Soup: Increase the amount of heavy cream or milk for an extra rich and creamy texture.
- Hearty Polish Potato Soup: Add other vegetables like mushrooms, leeks, or green beans for extra nutrients and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without cream or kielbasa):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7g
- Fat: 5-8g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This delicious and easy Polish Potato Soup recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it accessible for all skill levels, while the flavorful result will impress even the most discerning palates. Enjoy!