Potato cream soup

Creamy Potato Soup with Aromatic Croutons

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 45-55 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Creamy potato soup is a classic, comforting, and versatile recipe that brings warmth and joy to every bowl. This soup is perfect for chilly days or when you crave a comforting dish. The origins of this soup can be found in traditional cuisine, where the potato, a staple ingredient, is transformed through simple methods into something truly special.

Ingredients:

- 8 medium potatoes (about 1 kg)
- 2 medium onions
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 large celery root
- 1 parsnip
- 1 parsley root
- 1 bunch of fresh tarragon (or 1-2 tablespoons of dried tarragon)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 100 g Cedar cheese (or cow's cheese for a more intense flavor)
- Aromatic croutons:
- 50 g butter
- 1-2 tablespoons of dried and ground tarragon

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables well. Cut the potatoes, onion, celery, parsnip, and parsley root into large cubes. The garlic can be left whole, but you can crush it lightly to release its flavors.

2. Boiling the vegetables: Place all the chopped vegetables in a large pot. Add enough water to cover them, a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes, until the vegetables are soft. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Preparing the aromatic croutons: In a separate pan, melt 50 g of butter over medium heat. Add the dried tarragon and mix well. You can also add a bit of pepper for extra flavor. Add cubes of bread (about 200 g) and toast them until golden and crispy, stirring constantly. These croutons will add a crunchy and flavorful texture to your soup.

4. Pureeing the vegetables: Once the vegetables are cooked, remove them with a slotted spoon and place them in a bowl. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the vegetables until they become a smooth paste. Gradually add the cooking liquid until you reach the desired consistency. This is the stage where you can adjust the soup, adding more liquid for a thinner soup or less for a thicker texture.

5. Finalizing the soup: Return the pureed soup to the pot and bring it to a boil. Add the cubes of Cedar cheese (or cow's cheese) and stir well until the cheese melts. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as preferred.

6. Serving: Pour the creamy soup into bowls and sprinkle the aromatic croutons on top. Garnish with finely chopped fresh tarragon for a vibrant look and fresh aroma.

Practical Tips:

- Cheese alternatives: If you can't find Cedar cheese, you can use feta cheese or any other type of cheese that melts well.
- Adding other vegetables: You can experiment with additional vegetables like carrots or zucchini for a different and more complex flavor.
- Serving with garnishes: This soup can also be served with a teaspoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Suitable drinks: Creamy potato soup pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a light beer, which will complement the delicate flavors of the soup.

Nutritional Information:

This creamy potato soup is an excellent source of carbohydrates, vitamins (especially vitamin C from the potatoes and vegetables), and minerals. The cheese adds protein and calcium, while tarragon is rich in antioxidants. A serving of creamy potato soup provides about 250-300 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I freeze the soup? Yes, creamy potato soup can be frozen, but the texture may be affected upon thawing. It's better to consume it freshly made.
2. How can I make the soup spicier? You can add a bit of chili pepper or cayenne pepper during cooking for a touch of heat.
3. What other spices can I use? You can experiment with herbs like dill or parsley, which will give your soup a fresh note.

Creamy potato soup is not just a simple recipe but also a dish that can bring back beautiful memories, whether it's family meals or moments of indulgence. So, embrace this recipe and turn each serving into an unforgettable experience!