Potato soup with sour cream and hot pepper

Potato soup with sour cream and chili pepper – A recipe that combines tradition with a personal touch

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Potato soup is a classic dish in many culinary cultures, often associated with warm and comforting family meals. This version of potato soup with sour cream and chili pepper will not only warm your soul but also add a spicy note and rich flavor, transforming an ordinary recipe into an unforgettable delight.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 small onion
- 1 small carrot
- 4 large potatoes
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 chili pepper
- 4 tablespoons of sour cream
- 30 ml of oil
- 5 tablespoons of tomato paste (or tomato purée)
- Fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient tips:
- Choose fresh vegetables, preferably in season, to achieve the best flavors. The potatoes should be firm and free of green spots.
- Olive oil or sunflower oil can be used instead of regular oil, bringing a distinct flavor.
- Tomato paste is essential to give the soup a beautiful color and deep flavor. If you prefer, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato paste, but make sure to mash them well.

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling the onion, carrot, and potatoes. Cut the onion into small cubes, grate the carrot, and cut the potatoes into equal-sized cubes for even cooking. Slice the red bell pepper into thin strips and chop the chili pepper into small pieces, adjusting the amount according to your spice tolerance.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over low heat. Add the onion, carrot, and red bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. This process will bring the flavors to life and create the perfect base for the soup.

3. Boiling the soup: Once the vegetables are sautéed, add the potato cubes and pour in 1.5 liters of boiling water. Let it simmer over low heat, covering the pot, for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Adding flavors: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the tomato paste, chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes for the flavors to meld.

5. Serving: The soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top and, if you like, slices of chili pepper for an extra kick. This brings a pleasant contrast between creaminess and spiciness, and the parsley adds a touch of freshness.

Possible variations:
- If you prefer a tangier soup, you can add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar at the end for a more complex flavor.
- You can enrich the soup with meat (e.g., chicken or pork) to give it a richer consistency.
- Add a handful of fresh spinach or other vegetables of your choice, such as carrots or zucchini, to diversify the dish.

Helpful tips:
- Potato soup is versatile and can be adapted based on available ingredients. Replace potatoes with pumpkin or celery for an interesting variation.
- To achieve an even more flavorful soup, let the vegetables sauté longer until the onion turns golden.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but make sure to let them thaw before adding them to the pot.
2. How can I store the soup for a longer time?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. You can freeze it for later consumption, but it is recommended to add the sour cream at serving, not before freezing.
3. What can I serve with the soup?
Potato soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh homemade bread or seasoned croutons. A green salad can also complement the meal.

Nutritional information:
This potato soup is a good source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables used. A serving contains approximately 250 calories, making it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Try this recipe for potato soup with sour cream and chili pepper and let yourself be carried away by its comforting flavors! Whether it's a cold winter day or you simply need an easy and tasty dish, this soup will bring a smile to your face and those of your loved ones. Enjoy!