Potato cream soup with creme fraiche

Potato cream soup with crème fraîche

Total preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Have you ever thought about how comforting a warm soup can be, especially on cool days? Potato cream soup is a classic dish that combines the simplicity of ingredients with a velvety texture and delicious taste. Meat-free but full of flavor, this soup is ideal for those looking for a light yet tasty meal. Plus, it's an easy recipe to make, perfect for beginners as well as experienced cooks who want to indulge their taste buds.

Let's begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients:
- 900 ml water
- 5 medium potatoes
- 1 white onion
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- 2-3 carrots
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- 200 g crème fraîche (or thick sour cream)
- a bunch of fresh parsley

The history of this soup is tied to the joy of using simple ingredients to create a comforting meal. Potato cream soup has evolved over time, with each culture adding its own touch, but the essence remains the same: a dish that combines basic ingredients to provide a rich taste and velvety texture.

Preparation:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes. Choose medium-sized potatoes, which are easier to cook evenly. Cut them into cubes of about 2-3 cm to cook faster. Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. Peel the carrots and cut them into thin rounds or cubes, depending on your preference.

2. Sauté the onion and garlic: In a 5-liter pot, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and place it over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and release their aroma. This step is essential as it will provide the soup with an intense flavor base.

3. Boil the vegetables: Once the onion and garlic are ready, add the 900 ml of water and the chopped potatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced carrots and let it boil for about 20-25 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.

4. Season: When the vegetables are cooked, add salt and pepper to taste. Each ingredient has its own personality, and the spices help them express themselves. I encourage you to experiment with various spices, such as nutmeg or thyme, to add a personal touch to your soup.

5. Blend into a cream: Use an immersion blender to turn the vegetable mixture into cream. If you prefer, you can use a regular blender, but make sure the mixture cools slightly before blending to avoid splattering with hot soup.

6. Add crème fraîche: After achieving a smooth texture, add the crème fraîche and mix well. This will give the soup a wonderful creaminess and delicate flavor. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes to combine the flavors.

7. Finish with parsley: Before serving, finely chop the fresh parsley and add it to the soup for an extra touch of freshness and color.

8. Serving: Serve the potato cream soup warm, with a drizzle of olive oil on top or with crunchy croutons. A slice of fresh bread alongside will make this meal a true feast!

Helpful tips:
- Variations: You can add coconut milk for an exotic touch. Choose unsweetened coconut milk to maintain the balance of flavors. You can also replace the potatoes with pumpkin or celery for a soup with different flavors.
- Frequently asked questions: Can this soup be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the soup, but add the crème fraîche only before serving, as it may change texture during freezing.
- Perfect pairings: This soup pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a grilled cheese sandwich. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine complements the delicate flavors of the soup very well.

Nutritional benefits:
Potato cream soup is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, while the vegetables bring essential vitamins and minerals. Parsley adds a dose of antioxidants and contributes to digestive health.

Calories: Approximately 250 calories per serving, depending on the amount of crème fraîche used.

In conclusion, potato cream soup with crème fraîche is an excellent choice for a comforting meal that is easy to prepare and full of flavor. Don't forget to put your personal touch on the recipe by adding your favorite spices or experimenting with various variations. Enjoy your meal!