Creamy Potato Soup Recipe

Creamy Potato Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/2 lb bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside on a paper towel to drain, leaving the bacon grease in the pot.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In the same pot with bacon grease, add butter, onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Flour:
   • Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Add Liquids and Potatoes:
   • Slowly pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring continuously. Add the diced potatoes, thyme, black pepper, and salt.
5. Simmer:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Blend (Optional):
   • For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot to your desired consistency. You can also blend only half if you prefer some chunks in your soup.
7. Add Cream:
   • Stir in the heavy cream and allow the soup to heat through.
8. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with the crispy bacon, fresh parsley, and serve with a slice of toasted bread on the side.

This soup is perfect for a chilly day and offers a filling meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Enjoy crafting this creamy delight!