Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup

Introduction:

Warm, creamy, and utterly comforting, Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup is a classic dish that’s perfect for chilly days and cozy evenings. Packed with tender potatoes, savory bacon, and creamy cheese, this soup is a delicious way to satisfy your cravings and warm up from the inside out. Let’s dive into how to make this ultimate comfort food that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound bacon, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 cups chicken stock, or enough to cover potatoes
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
• 3 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
2. Add the diced celery, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the pot with the bacon drippings. Cook until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the peeled and cubed potatoes, then pour in enough chicken stock to cover the potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour to form a roux. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
6. Pour the cream mixture into the pot with the cooked potatoes and broth, stirring to combine.
7. Add the dried tarragon and chopped fresh cilantro to the soup. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
8. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
9. Serve hot, garnished with the crispy chopped bacon and additional chopped cilantro if desired.
10. Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes | Total Time: 55-60 minutes | Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish Before Serving: Before serving Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of crumbled bacon and chopped green onions. This adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color to the soup, enhancing its visual appeal.
2. Serve with Crusty Bread: Accompany the soup with slices of crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth. A warm baguette or garlic bread pairs especially well with the creamy texture of the soup.
3. Pair with a Side Salad: For a well-rounded meal, serve Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup with a side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The crisp, refreshing salad provides a contrast in texture and adds a dose of healthy greens to the meal.
4. Top with Additional Cheese: For cheese lovers, consider sprinkling extra shredded cheddar cheese on top of the soup just before serving. The melted cheese adds an extra layer of richness and indulgence to each spoonful.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before transferring it to the container to prevent condensation.
2. Freezing: Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup can be frozen for longer-term storage. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
3. Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Alternatively, reheat it gently in a saucepan on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
4. Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or frozen Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup, transfer it to a saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to adjust the consistency.

FAQs:

1. Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes? Absolutely! While russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are commonly used for their creamy texture, you can experiment with other varieties such as red potatoes or even sweet potatoes for a unique twist on the classic soup.
2. Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian? Yes, you can easily make Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup vegetarian by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables such as carrots, celery, or leeks for added flavor and texture.
3. Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time? Certainly! Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. Prepare the soup as directed, allow it to cool completely, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
4. How Do I Achieve a Creamy Texture Without an Immersion Blender? If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender to blend the soup in batches until smooth. Be sure to allow the soup to cool slightly before blending, and exercise caution when working with hot liquids.
5. Can I Freeze Leftover Soup? Yes, Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup freezes well for future enjoyment. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion:

Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for warming up on cold days or indulging in a cozy meal at any time. With its creamy texture, hearty potatoes, and savory bacon, this soup is sure to please the whole family. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dinner or a satisfying lunch, Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup is a delicious way to savor the flavors of home. Try making it today and experience the ultimate comfort in every spoonful.