German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) Recipe

There is something truly heartwarming about a warm bowl of German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe). This classic dish brings together simple, wholesome ingredients to create a comforting soup that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing. Each spoonful offers tender chunks of potatoes and vegetables steeped in aromatic broth, all enhanced by subtle hints of marjoram and nutmeg. Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal for a chilly evening or a taste of traditional German cuisine, this German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) promises to become a beloved go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) are wonderfully straightforward yet packed with flavor. Each element plays a role in building the soup’s beautiful layers of taste and texture—whether it’s the sweetness of carrots, the earthiness of potatoes, or the aromatic spices that bring everything together.

• 1 tbsp oil: Helps sauté the vegetables, unlocking their flavors and creating a fragrant base.
• 1 onion, diced: Adds a natural sweetness and depth to the soup’s foundation.
• 3 garlic cloves, minced: Brings a gentle aromatic punch that complements the other vegetables.
• 2 stalks celery or 1/2 small celery root, diced: Offers a mild, refreshing crunch and subtle earthiness.
• 2 medium carrots, diced: Contributes a touch of sweetness and a vibrant pop of color.
• 2 pounds (900 g) potatoes, chopped: The star ingredient that gives the soup its creamy, hearty texture.
• ½ tsp dried marjoram: A classic herb in German cooking, lending a delicate, slightly minty flavor.
• 1 pinch of nutmeg: Adds warmth and complexity without overpowering the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
• 4 cups (1000 ml) vegetable broth or water: The flavorful liquid base that brings everything together.
• 2 whole bay leaves (optional): Infuse a subtle herbal aroma during simmering.
• ⅓ cup (80 g) dairy-free cream: Adds creaminess and a luscious finish, keeping the soup rich and smooth.
• Fresh parsley to garnish: Brings a fresh, bright note to each serving.
• Vegan sausage sliced (optional): For an extra layer of savory goodness and protein.

How to Make German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic, diced celery, carrots, potatoes, dried marjoram, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir and let it cook together for another minute to awaken all those wonderful aromas.

Step 2: Simmer the Soup

Pour in the vegetable broth along with the bay leaves if you’re using them. Turn up the heat until the soup reaches a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This slow simmer helps the potatoes and carrots soften fully while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 3: Blend Half the Soup

Carefully ladle about half of the soup into a separate pot or bowl. Remove the bay leaves from the main pot before blending. Use an immersion blender to puree this portion until smooth, making the soup creamy while still preserving the texture of unblended veggies in the other half. If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender works perfectly—just blend in small batches to avoid spills.

Step 4: Combine and Cream

Return the blended soup to the main pot. Stir in the dairy-free cream to add richness and a silky consistency. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes so all the flavors can marry. Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. This final step brings harmony to the comforting German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe).

How to Serve German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe)

Garnishes

A simple garnish can elevate this soup from delicious to sensational. Freshly chopped parsley adds a splash of vibrant green color and a hint of herbaceous brightness that balances the creamy potato base. You can also sprinkle a few cracking of black pepper or add a drizzle of extra dairy-free cream for visual appeal and a taste boost.

Side Dishes

German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) pairs wonderfully with hearty breads like crusty rye or a soft pretzel roll for soaking up every last drop. For a classic touch, serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, vegan sausages on the side make a satisfying complementary protein.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress your friends or family, serve this soup in rustic bread bowls for an edible, cozy presentation. You could also top the soup with toasted pumpkin seeds or crispy fried onions for an added crunch that contrasts with the creamy texture. Another fun idea is to swirl in a small spoonful of homemade herb pesto right before serving to infuse the soup with an extra burst of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. The flavors actually deepen over time, making leftovers even tastier than the first serving.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze it before adding the dairy-free cream—just blend and cool the soup, then store in freezer-safe containers. When thawing, add the cream fresh and gently reheat to preserve the soup’s creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much during storage, splash in a little vegetable broth or water to loosen the consistency. Add the dairy-free cream last, warming just until incorporated so it remains silky smooth.

FAQs

Can I use different types of potatoes for this soup?

Absolutely! While starchy potatoes like Russets are ideal for a creamy texture, Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work wonderfully, offering a bit more bite. Just make sure to dice them uniformly for even cooking.

Is it necessary to use vegetable broth, or can I use water?

Vegetable broth enriches the flavor significantly, but if you don’t have it on hand, clean water will work. Consider adding extra herbs or seasoning to compensate and keep the soup flavorful.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth and soy-free, gluten-free vegan sausages if you choose to add them. Always check your product labels to be sure.

Can I add other vegetables to German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe)?

Certainly! Feel free to add turnips, parsnips, or leeks for variation. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure all veggies become tender and flavorful.

How spicy is this soup? Can I make it more or less spicy?

The traditional recipe is mild, with just a hint of warmth from nutmeg and optional red pepper flakes. You can easily control the spice level by adjusting or omitting the red pepper flakes based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) recipe feels like passing along a warm hug in a bowl. It’s a dish that brings comfort, simplicity, and tradition together effortlessly. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or introducing friends to German flavors, this soup will not disappoint. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into the soul-soothing warmth of Kartoffelsuppe—you’ll be so glad you did!

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