There's nothing quite like a bowl of hearty rustic potato soup to warm you up on a chilly day. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a comforting, satisfying dish that’s perfect for when you need a little culinary hug.
Russet potatoes are the star of this soup, providing a creamy texture when cooked and mashed. Their starchy nature makes them perfect for thickening the soup naturally.
Onion and garlic form the flavor base, adding depth and aroma. They’re sautéed in butter to release their sweetness and create a savory foundation.
Chicken broth is the liquid component, enhancing the soup's savory notes while keeping it light. You can use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian version.
Whole milk adds creaminess without making the soup overly rich, balancing the flavors and textures beautifully.
Sour cream provides a tangy finish, elevating the soup with a slight hint of acidity.
Fresh parsley is sprinkled in for a burst of color and freshness, giving a lovely contrast to the creamy soup.
Bacon bits (optional) add a smoky crunch, taking the soup to the next level of deliciousness.
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of artisan bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It’s also great served in a bread bowl for a fun, rustic presentation.
Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the onions and garlic. Sauté them until they turn translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it forms the flavor base of your soup.
Add the diced potatoes to the pot, stirring them to coat with the buttery onion mixture. This ensures that the potatoes absorb all the lovely flavors right from the start.
Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes. The goal here is to have the potatoes tender enough that they can be easily mashed.
Once the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to partially mash them. This gives the soup a chunky texture, but feel free to mash more if you prefer a smoother consistency.
Stir in the milk, salt, and pepper, and allow them to heat through. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the sour cream and fresh parsley. These last additions provide a tangy and fresh finish to your soup.
Serve your soup hot, and if you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some bacon bits on top for an extra layer of flavor and texture.