Kartoffelsuppe – German Potato Soup

Kartoffelsuppe, or German Potato Soup, is a creamy, comforting soup made primarily from potatoes, onions, and leeks, often flavored with garlic, thyme, and a bay leaf. This hearty dish is perfect for chilly days and is typically garnished with fresh parsley. The soup can be blended to achieve a smooth texture or left chunky for a more rustic feel, making it a versatile favorite in German cuisine.

Yes, you can easily make Kartoffelsuppe vegan by substituting heavy cream with a plant-based alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and omit the butter or replace it with olive oil or vegan butter. The soup will still be delicious and comforting while catering to vegan dietary preferences.

For Kartoffelsuppe, starchy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best as they break down during cooking, resulting in a creamy texture. Waxy potatoes like red potatoes or new potatoes can also be used for a chunkier soup, but they won't yield the same creamy consistency. Choose according to your texture preference for the soup.

To store leftover Kartoffelsuppe, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for 3-4 days. For longer storage, Kartoffelsuppe can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to adjust the consistency if needed.

Absolutely! Kartoffelsuppe is versatile and can accommodate a variety of vegetables. Consider adding carrots, celery, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onions and leeks before adding the potatoes and broth. Adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure all vegetables are tender.

To thicken Kartoffelsuppe, you can blend more of the soup until it reaches your desired consistency or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with water) and simmer until thickened. If the soup is too thick, simply add more broth or water while reheating to achieve a thinner texture. Adjust gradually to ensure the flavor remains balanced.

Kartoffelsuppe pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, such as a hearty rye or sourdough, for dipping. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or traditional German sausages for a complete meal. For a garnish, consider offering croutons or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the soup's creaminess and flavor.