Potato cream soup with mascarpone

Mashed Potato Soup with Mascarpone

If you're looking for a creamy, flavorful, and comforting soup, you've come to the right place! This mashed potato soup with mascarpone is a true delicacy, even for those who are not fans of creamy soups. Combining velvety textures with a rich flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Before we get started, let's take a look at the essential ingredients and the time needed to prepare this delicious soup.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 600 g potatoes (ideally type A, which boil well, such as white potatoes)
- 1 large onion (preferably white or yellow)
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons of butter (we recommend high-fat quality butter)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if you have it on hand)
- 1 liter vegetable or chicken broth (preferably homemade for a more intense flavor)
- 150 g mascarpone (this ingredient adds fantastic creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 100 g crushed walnuts (for a crunchy and tasty topping)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized cubes so they cook evenly. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes golden and translucent.

2. Adding flavors: Once the onion is ready, add the finely chopped garlic and dried thyme. Sauté for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

3. Boiling the potatoes: Add the potato cubes to the pot and mix well. Then, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer on low for 20-30 minutes or until the potatoes are very soft.

4. Blending the soup: Once the potatoes are cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until you achieve a smooth and creamy texture. Add the mascarpone and blend again to fully incorporate. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little water or broth until you reach the desired consistency.

5. The crunchy topping: Before serving, take a third of the boiled potatoes (that are not pureed) and set them aside. These will add an interesting texture to your soup.

6. Serving: Divide the soup into bowls and add a spoonful of the reserved potatoes to each plate. Sprinkle crushed walnuts on top, which will provide a wonderful contrast of textures. If desired, you can drizzle with a little olive oil for extra flavor.

A brief history

Mashed potato soup is a recipe that has crossed generations, appreciated for its simplicity and versatility. It is a perfect example of comfort food, bringing a sense of warmth and familiarity, especially on chilly days. Mascarpone, an ingredient originating from Italy, enriches this soup and gives it a sophisticated touch, transforming it from an ordinary recipe into a special dish.

Practical tips:

- Choosing potatoes: White or yellow-fleshed potatoes are ideal for this soup, as they have a high starch content, which helps achieve a creamy texture.
- Vegan option: You can replace the mascarpone with a nut or tofu-based vegan substitute to adapt the recipe to a plant-based diet.
- Optional toppings: You can add toasted bread croutons, feta cheese, or even a few fresh basil leaves for an extra touch of freshness.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use sweet potatoes? Yes, you can experiment with sweet potatoes, but the taste will be different, sweeter, and more aromatic.
2. How do I store the soup? The soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container.
3. What can I serve with the soup? This soup pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or artisanal bread. A bottle of dry white wine will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits

Mashed potato soup with mascarpone is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates from potatoes, providing energy and satiety. Garlic is known for its antioxidant properties and benefits for the immune system, while mascarpone adds calcium and protein. Crushed walnuts are a good source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein.

In conclusion, mashed potato soup with mascarpone is not only a simple and quick recipe but also brings a touch of refinement by combining ingredients. I hope you enjoy every bite and share it with your loved ones! Whether you savor it on a chilly evening or serve it as an appetizer at a festive meal, this soup will surely bring smiles to everyone's faces. Enjoy your meal!