This homemade potato soup is a comforting, thick, and delicious dish that will warm you up on a cold day. It’s packed with nutritious vegetables and seasoned just right to create a healing meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. This recipe is perfect for when you need something quick, hearty, and healthy. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be adjusted based on what you have in your kitchen.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

1 onion, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 carrot, chopped

3 potatoes, chopped
300g (10.58 oz) cabbage, shredded
1 cucumber, chopped

3 cups (750 ml) vegetable broth
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by chopping the onion, carrot, potatoes, cabbage, and cucumber. The smaller you chop the vegetables, the quicker they will cook.

Sauté the Onion and Carrot: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrot, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and the carrot begins to soften, about 5 minutes.
Add the Potatoes and Cabbage: Stir in the chopped potatoes and shredded cabbage. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that the vegetables are fully covered. If needed, add more broth or water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Incorporate the Cucumber: Add the chopped cucumber and cook for an additional 5 minutes. This step adds a fresh and slightly tangy flavor to the soup, balancing out the richness of the potatoes.
Season to Taste: Finally, season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning until it’s just right for your palate.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. For an extra touch, you can garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.

Tips for Cooking:

Choose Starchy Potatoes: For a creamier texture, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They break down more easily and help thicken the soup naturally.
Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot. If it’s too thick, simply add a bit more broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Boost Flavor: Adding a bay leaf or a few sprigs of thyme while the soup simmers can elevate the flavor profile. Just remember to remove them before serving.

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand, like celery, leeks, or even corn. This soup is versatile and can adapt to what’s available in your kitchen.

Possible Questions:

Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth? Yes, chicken broth can be used if you prefer a richer flavor. It adds depth and complements the potato nicely.
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two.

Is it possible to freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra water or broth.
Can I make this soup vegan? The soup is already vegan, as it uses vegetable broth and no dairy. Just ensure your broth is vegan-friendly.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

Calories: Approximately 180 kcal

Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g

Fiber: 5g
Vitamin A: 70% of the Daily Value
Vitamin C: 50% of the Daily Value

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little broth or water if it has thickened too much.
Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for a quick meal option. Be sure to leave some space in the container, as the soup will expand as it freezes.

Conclusion:

This thick and hearty potato soup is more than just a meal; it’s comfort in a bowl. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or need a quick and nutritious dinner, this soup has got you covered. Its simplicity allows the flavors of the fresh vegetables to shine, making it a favorite in any household. Enjoy this healing soup with some crusty bread on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.