Smoked sausage potato soup

Smoky potato soup is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and warmth, perfect for cold days or for moments when we want to indulge in a comforting dish. This recipe, which combines the intense flavors of smoked meat with the sweetness of vegetables, is easy to prepare and ideal for enjoying with family or friends. I will guide you step by step in making this delicacy, providing you with useful tips to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 300 g smoked meat (shoulder, bacon or smoked sausages)
- 4-5 medium red potatoes
- 1 yellow onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 liters of water
- iodized salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- sour cream (for serving)
- fresh herbs (parsley or dill, for garnish)

Brief history
Smoky potato soup is a dish that has been cherished in many cultures due to its simplicity and accessible ingredients. Over time, it has evolved, with each family adding a personal touch to the recipe. The smoked meat adds depth and an unmistakable flavor, transforming a simple vegetable soup into a hearty and savory main dish.

Step by step for a perfect soup

1. Preparing the smoked meat
Start by washing the smoked meat well under cold running water. This will help remove excess salt and smokiness. Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces and place it in a pot with cold water. Boil the meat for about 30 minutes over medium heat, uncovered. This step is essential for extracting flavors from the meat, which will enrich the soup.

2. Preparing the vegetables
While the meat is boiling, peel and finely chop the onion. In a pan, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and sauté the onion, adding a little water to prevent burning. Sautéing the onion will intensify its flavor, providing a rich taste to the soup. Once the onion becomes translucent, add the peeled and sliced carrots, as well as the diced red bell pepper. Let the vegetables sauté together for about 5 minutes.

3. Adding the potatoes
Peel the red potatoes and cut them into cubes. This type of potato is ideal for soup as it holds its shape, adding a pleasant texture. Add the potatoes to the pan and mix well to combine with the other vegetables. Let them sauté together for 2-3 minutes.

4. Combining the ingredients
After the meat has boiled, add the meat pieces and the water it boiled in to the pan with the vegetables. Add 2 liters of water and season with salt, sweet paprika, and freshly ground pepper. Mix everything well and let the soup simmer over medium heat for about 35 minutes, uncovered. It is important to check the soup periodically and stir to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

5. Serving the soup
When the soup is ready, taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference. Serve the soup hot, with a generous spoonful of sour cream on top and sprinkle with freshly chopped herbs. This will add a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast to the intense flavors of the soup.

Useful tips
- Choosing the meat: Select quality smoked meat, as this will influence the final taste of the soup. You can experiment with different types of smoked meats to discover your preferred combination.
- Vegetables: The soup can be enriched with other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, for an extra boost of nutrients.
- Variations: If you want a lighter version, you can omit the sour cream or use a light alternative. You can also add a teaspoon of lemon juice to add a touch of acidity that will balance the flavors.
- Storing the soup: The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, and the flavor will actually improve the next day as the ingredients meld together.

Frequently asked questions
- Can the smoky potato soup be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the soup, but it is recommended to do so without the sour cream. Add the sour cream only when serving, to maintain the creamy texture.

- What other side dishes go well with this soup?
Fresh bread or crunchy croutons are excellent accompaniments to complete the meal.

Calories and nutritional benefits
This soup has approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the amount of meat and sour cream used. It is a good source of protein from the meat, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables, making it a nutritious dish that provides the energy needed for an active day.

Whether you choose to enjoy it with family or prepare it for a gathering with friends, smoky potato soup will surely bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. I wish you happy cooking and bon appétit!