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A bowl of Traditional German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) with bacon and vegetables.

Traditional German Potato Soup

A cozy and hearty potato soup with smoked bacon or sausage, perfect for cold days.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Comfort Food, German
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, or Russets Preferred for their creamy texture.
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced small
  • 1-2 stalks celery, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Optional but adds flavor.
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 4 oz smoked bacon or German sausage Optional but traditional; adds depth of flavor.
  • 1 tsp dried marjoram A classic herb in German soups.
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • to taste salt and pepper Add slowly and taste as you go.
  • 1 splash cream or knob of butter Optional for extra richness.
  • for topping fresh parsley or chives Adds freshness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a big pot, cook the chopped bacon until it is crisp. Scoop it out and leave a tablespoon or so of the fat in the pot.
  2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the onion looks soft and smells sweet. Stir in the minced garlic for the last 30 seconds.
  3. Add the diced potatoes, broth, bay leaf, and a good pinch of marjoram. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower to a simmer.
  4. Simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.
  5. Mash some of the potatoes in the pot with a potato masher for a half creamy, half chunky texture, or scoop out a cup or two and blend, then stir it back in.
  6. Stir the bacon back in or add browned sausage slices. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. If desired, add a splash of cream or a knob of butter for richness.

Notes

This soup can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day. Reheat gently, adding a splash of broth or water as needed.