German Potato Soup Recipe

A comforting and hearty bowl of German potato soup is exactly what you need to warm up on a cold day. This classic soup is packed with flavors from tender potatoes, onions, carrots, and rich spices like marjoram and nutmeg. Perfect for vegans or anyone looking for a wholesome, satisfying meal, this recipe is both nutritious and filling. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this German potato soup will impress your guests and family alike. Read on for a detailed guide on how to make this delicious soup from scratch, along with some tips, variations, and common mistakes to avoid. You won’t want to miss out on this amazing recipe!

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What is German Potato Soup?

German potato soup, or "Kartoffelsuppe," is a traditional dish known for its simplicity and rich, warming flavors. Originating in Germany, this soup is typically made with potatoes, onions, and carrots, and flavored with spices like marjoram and nutmeg. Often served with sausages, this dish is a beloved comfort food, especially during the colder months. The vegan version of this soup, as presented here, substitutes dairy cream with plant-based cream and includes vegan sausage as an option for those who want to stay plant-based.

Ingredients List for German Potato Soup

To make the perfect pot of German potato soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon oil – Used for sautéing the vegetables, oil provides the base for building flavors.
• 1 onion (diced) – Onions are the foundation of many soups, adding a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 3 garlic cloves (minced) – Garlic enhances the overall taste with its aromatic quality.
• 2 stalks of celery or ½ small celery root (diced) – Celery adds an earthy flavor and extra texture to the soup.
• 2 medium carrots (diced) – Carrots bring a slight sweetness and vibrant color.
• 2 pounds (900 g) potatoes (chopped) – The star ingredient! Potatoes make the soup thick, creamy, and hearty.
• ½ teaspoon dried marjoram – Marjoram adds a mildly sweet, woodsy flavor to complement the potatoes.
• Pinch of nutmeg – Nutmeg adds warmth and a slight hint of spice that balances the other flavors.
• Salt and pepper (to taste) – Essential seasonings to enhance the flavors.
• 4 cups (1000 ml) vegetable broth or water – Vegetable broth adds flavor depth, but water can also be used in a pinch.
• 2 whole bay leaves (optional) – These bring a subtle herbal note to the soup.
• ⅓ cup (80 g) dairy-free cream – Cream gives the soup a velvety texture, while the plant-based version keeps it vegan.
• Fresh parsley (to garnish) – Parsley adds freshness and color as a final touch.
• Vegan sausage (sliced, optional) – Vegan sausage gives an authentic touch to the soup for those who want a heartier meal.

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this German potato soup recipe is how versatile it is. Here are a few ways you can change it up:

• Celery Root vs. Celery Stalks: If you can’t find celery root, celery stalks are a fine substitute. However, celery root has a slightly stronger and earthier flavor.
• Dairy Cream vs. Dairy-Free Cream: If you're not vegan, you can replace the dairy-free cream with regular cream. Both will give the soup a luscious texture.
• Vegan Sausage vs. Traditional Sausage: Vegan sausage is a wonderful option to keep the soup plant-based, but feel free to use regular German sausage (like bratwurst) if you're not following a vegan diet.
• Adding Leeks: Some versions of German potato soup also include leeks for an additional layer of flavor.
• Using Sweet Potatoes: For a twist, you can swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes, giving the soup a sweeter, more autumnal vibe.
• Smoky Flavor: For a deeper, smokier flavor, you can add smoked paprika or even liquid smoke to the broth.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by prepping your vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the carrots, celery, and potatoes into even-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and fragrant.
3. Add the Vegetables: Toss in the diced celery and carrots. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so they start to soften.
4. Incorporate the Potatoes and Spices: Add the chopped potatoes to the pot along with the dried marjoram, nutmeg, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine the flavors.
5. Add Broth and Bay Leaves: Pour in the vegetable broth (or water) and add the bay leaves if you're using them. Stir everything together.
6. Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and can easily be pierced with a fork.
7. Blend the Soup: Once the potatoes are cooked, remove the bay leaves. Using an immersion blender, partially blend the soup to create a creamy texture while still leaving some chunks for texture. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can blend it entirely.
8. Add the Dairy-Free Cream: Stir in the dairy-free cream for that extra creamy texture. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
9. Optional: Add Vegan Sausage: If you’re including vegan sausage, slice it and either stir it into the soup or pan-fry it separately and use it as a topping.
10. Garnish and Serve: Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Cooking the Potatoes Long Enough: Potatoes should be fully tender before blending. If they aren’t cooked through, the soup will have a grainy texture.
• Over-blending: Be careful when blending. If you blend the soup too much, it may become too smooth and lose its chunky texture, which is part of its charm.
• Forgetting to Season: Salt and pepper are key to bringing out the flavors in the soup. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Skipping the Cream: While the cream is optional, it adds a luxurious texture. If you're avoiding cream, try using a splash of oat milk or another creamy substitute.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Serving this soup is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. Here’s how to make your bowl of soup shine:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of hearty German rye or sourdough bread. The crunchy crust will complement the creamy soup.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top adds color and freshness.
• Side Salad: Pair the soup with a light side salad made of leafy greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette to balance the hearty flavors.

How to Serve German Potato Soup

To serve German potato soup, ladle it into deep bowls, making sure each portion has an even mix of vegetables and broth. If you added vegan sausage, make sure each bowl has a few slices on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Presentation Ideas for German Potato Soup

• Serve in Bread Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in bread bowls. Hollow out small sourdough loaves and ladle the soup into the center.
• Swirl of Cream: Before serving, drizzle a swirl of dairy-free cream or yogurt on top of the soup for an elegant touch.
• Croutons: Garnish with homemade croutons for extra crunch and visual appeal.

German Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Make Ahead: This soup actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. It’s perfect for meal prep.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Just leave out the cream until you're ready to serve and add it after reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a different flavor profile and slightly sweeter taste, but they work well in this recipe.

2. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as the vegetable broth you use is certified gluten-free.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

4. How do I thicken the soup without cream?
You can thicken the soup by blending more of the potatoes. Potatoes naturally thicken the soup as they break down.

5. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Leeks, parsnips, or even turnips can be added for extra flavor and texture.

Conclusion

German potato soup is a classic, hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings. With its simple ingredients and warming flavors, it’s a soup that never fails to satisfy. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or explore substitutions and variations, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy a bowl with crusty bread and savor the taste of Germany right in your own kitchen!

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