This hearty German Potato Soup is warm and filling, made with creamy potatoes and fresh veggies. It’s perfect for cozy nights in!
I love how easy it is to whip up this soup. Just chop, simmer, and enjoy! Plus, it makes my kitchen smell amazing—who can resist that? 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets work best for a creamy texture. If you don’t have Russets, try using Yukon Golds or even red potatoes—they hold their shape well and taste great too.
German Sausage: Bratwurst or kielbasa adds authentic flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider using plant-based sausage or just leave it out for a vegetable-only soup. You can also add cooked bacon for a smoky touch!
Broth: Chicken broth gives a richer flavor, but vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian version. Homemade broth is always a great option if you have it on hand.
Caraway Seeds: These add a unique flavor, but if you don’t have any, feel free to skip them. A pinch of dill or thyme can be a nice alternative if you like those herbs!
How Do I Get the Soup’s Texture Just Right?
Achieving the perfect texture in potato soup is key to making it comforting. You’ll want creamy sweetness mixed with hearty chunks. Here’s how:
- After the potatoes are tender, use a potato masher or immersion blender to blend some of the soup. This makes it creamy while keeping some pieces intact for texture.
- For a smooth soup, blend it all, but I love leaving some chunks for that rustic feel.
Always taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed for the best flavor!
How to Make German Potato Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 medium potatoes (preferably starchy like Russet), peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 200g (7 oz) German sausage (such as bratwurst or kielbasa), sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Sour cream for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious German Potato Soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. You’ll be enjoying a warm bowl of comfort in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and the onion turns a light golden color.
2. Add Garlic and Spices:
Now, add the minced garlic and caraway seeds (if you’re using them) to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly until the garlic is fragrant. Make sure not to let it burn!
3. Combine Potatoes and Broth:
Add the diced potatoes and the broth to the pot. Increase the heat to bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
4. Brown the Sausage:
While the soup simmers, take another pan and lightly brown the sliced sausage over medium heat. This should take about 5-7 minutes until the sausage gets a nice golden color. That’s where the flavor is!
5. Blend for Texture:
Once the potatoes are soft, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash or partially blend some of the potatoes in the soup. This gives the soup a creamy texture while keeping some delicious chunks. Do it to your liking!
6. Combine and Simmer:
Add the browned sausage to the soup and stir everything together. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes so the flavors meld nicely.
7. Season to Perfection:
Before serving, taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavor. Remember, seasoning is key!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your piping hot soup in bowls, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and taste. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this traditional German dish!
Happy cooking! 🍲
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While bratwurst and kielbasa are traditional choices, feel free to use any sausage you like, including turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. You can even skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian soup!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
Yes! Just make sure to use gluten-free sausage and check that your broth is gluten-free. Many brands offer certified gluten-free versions. This way, everyone can enjoy this comforting soup!
Is It Possible to Freeze German Potato Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
