Country Cooking: The Ultimate Old-Fashioned Potato Soup Recipe

Nothing is more comforting than a big pot of delicious, old-fashioned potato soup. This classic meal has been a favorite for generations — and for good reason. It is simple to make, delicious to eat, and great for gathering the family around the table for a hearty dinner. In this post, we will share our ultimate recipe for old-fashioned potato soup, along with tips and tricks for making it as perfect as possible.
We will also cover some health benefits of potato soup and ideas for adding a special twist. Once you have tried this delicious recipe, you will never want to go back to canned soup again. We’re sure you will love it, so gather your ingredients and get ready to make some cozy, comforting potato soup.
The Health Benefits of Potato Soup
When made with simple ingredients and minimal fat, potato soup has many health benefits. Potatoes are a great source of vitamin C, fiber, potassium, and other important nutrients. They also contain resistant starch, which helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and promote regular digestion. Potatoes are low in calories, fat-free, cholesterol-free, and gluten-free, making them an ideal food for people on many diets. This recipe also incorporates several vegetables for added nutritional value.
Potato Soup Ingredients
For the perfect potato soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- ¼ cup butter or margarine
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup diced carrots
- ½ cup diced celery
- ½ cup diced onion
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 1 ½ cups milk
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes, carrots, celery, and onion, and cook until the vegetables are tender.
Add the flour to thicken and stir until well blended. Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer the soup for 10 minutes or until thickened and bubbly.
Add the salt and pepper to taste and stir in the milk until fully combined. Cook for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through. For a richer flavor, stir in the chopped parsley before serving.
Tips for Making the Perfect Potato Soup
- If you prefer a creamier texture in your soup, use whole milk rather than skim or reduced-fat milk.
- For more flavor, add grated cheese or top the soup with sliced green onions or crumbled bacon to garnish your finished soup before serving.
- If you would like a thicker texture to your soup, stir in some instant mashed potatoes until the desired consistency is reached prior to adding the milk.
Variations on the Recipe
For a unique twist on this classic dish, you can try adding cooked macaroni noodles or cooked ground beef or sausage to your potato soup recipe for extra protein or texture. This will make the potato soup even heartier and more filling.
Conclusion
The combination of simple, wholesome ingredients makes potato soup an easy and nutritious meal that is perfect for a family gathering or a cozy night at home. Making your own potato soup is quick and easy — all you need are a few fresh ingredients and some basic cooking skills. Plus, you’ll love the delicious, comforting aromas that will fill your home and remind you of years past. So gather your ingredients and get ready to cook up a big pot of old-fashioned potato soup!