German Potato Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor, this German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) is the perfect dish for you. This comforting, wholesome soup is a staple in German cuisine, known for its creamy potatoes, savory vegetables, and smoky sausages. Whether you’re a fan of traditional German cooking or just seeking a new recipe to warm up your chilly evenings, this German Potato Soup will hit the spot. Read on to learn how to make this classic dish, complete with ingredients, variations, and tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

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What is German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe)?

German Potato Soup, or Kartoffelsuppe in German, is a classic, hearty soup made from a blend of potatoes, vegetables, and often some type of sausage (typically smoked sausage or bratwurst). The soup is simple yet packed with flavor, featuring ingredients like onions, carrots, celery, and leeks. It’s seasoned with herbs like marjoram and thyme, which bring out the earthy richness of the potatoes. This thick and creamy soup is traditionally served with crusty bread and is perfect for cold winter days or any time you crave a nourishing, rustic meal.

Ingredients List for German Potato Soup

Here’s everything you’ll need to make an authentic German Potato Soup at home:

• 1 pound (500g) potatoes, peeled and diced (use starchy potatoes like russets)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 leek, cleaned and sliced (white and light green parts only)
• 2 stalks of celery, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons dried marjoram
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional, for added warmth)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2-3 smoked sausages (such as kielbasa, bratwurst, or German wieners), sliced
• ½ cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Crusty bread, for serving

Ingredients List for German Potato Soup (Vegetarian Option)

To make this delicious soup vegetarian, you can easily omit the sausages and use plant-based alternatives. Here’s a modified version:

• 1 pound (500g) potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 1 leek, cleaned and sliced
• 2 stalks of celery, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or plant-based butter
• 2 teaspoons dried marjoram
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegan sausages (optional), sliced and cooked
• ½ cup plant-based cream (optional)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Crusty bread, for serving

Substitutions and Variations

There are several variations of German Potato Soup, and it’s incredibly adaptable depending on your taste preferences or what you have on hand:

• Sausage Substitutions: Instead of smoked sausage, you can use bratwurst, ham, or even pancetta for a different flavor. For a leaner option, try turkey or chicken sausage.
• Broth Options: Chicken broth adds more richness to the soup, but vegetable broth works wonderfully for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Vegetable Additions: You can add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for extra earthiness. Some versions of this soup also include a bit of cabbage for added texture and flavor.
• Herbs: Feel free to add more herbs if desired. Fresh marjoram and thyme are great additions to enhance the flavor, and parsley or dill can add freshness when sprinkled on top.
• Make It Creamy: If you prefer a richer soup, you can add heavy cream or milk. For a dairy-free alternative, use coconut milk or a plant-based cream.
• Spicy Twist: For a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of paprika to the soup.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through the process of making this delicious and comforting German Potato Soup:

1. Prep the Vegetables: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small chunks. Slice the carrots, leek, and celery, and finely chop the onion and garlic.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until they turn soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Carrots, Leeks, and Celery: Stir in the sliced carrots, leeks, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Add Potatoes and Spices: Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Sprinkle in the marjoram, thyme, bay leaves, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything together to coat the vegetables with the seasonings.
5. Pour in the Broth: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, making sure the vegetables are fully submerged. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Blend the Soup: Once the potatoes are soft, you can either blend the soup with an immersion blender to your desired consistency or leave it chunky if you prefer more texture. For a smooth soup, blend it until creamy. For a rustic version, only blend half of the soup and leave the rest chunky.
7. Cook the Sausages: In a separate skillet, cook the sliced sausages over medium heat until they are browned and slightly crispy. Add the cooked sausage to the soup, stirring to combine.
8. Add Cream (Optional): For a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream or milk. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with warm, crusty bread on the side.

How to Cook German Potato Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making German Potato Soup is all about layering flavors and letting the ingredients simmer to perfection. The key to this dish is cooking the vegetables just right and blending the soup to achieve a consistency you love. Some people prefer a thick, creamy texture, while others enjoy more chunks of potato and vegetables. No matter your preference, this recipe can be tailored to suit your taste buds. Don’t rush the sautéing step—it helps develop the rich, deep flavors that make this soup irresistible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes, or they’ll fall apart too much when blending. You want them tender but not mushy.
• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Sautéing the onions, garlic, and vegetables before adding the broth brings out their sweetness and enhances the soup’s flavor. Don’t skip this important step!
• Not Blending Correctly: If blending the soup, ensure it's not too hot when using a blender. Allow it to cool slightly, or use an immersion blender directly in the pot to avoid splattering.
• Forgetting to Adjust Seasoning: Always taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs. Potatoes absorb a lot of salt, so you may need to add more seasoning than you think.

Serving and Presentation Tips

German Potato Soup is typically served with a slice of rustic, crusty bread, perfect for dipping into the thick, flavorful broth. You can also garnish the soup with extra sausage slices, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or even a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche for a creamy finish.

• Add a Side Salad: Serve this hearty soup with a light, crisp salad to balance out the richness.
• Beer Pairing: Pair this soup with a cold German beer, such as a Pilsner or a wheat beer, for an authentic German meal experience.

How to Serve German Potato Soup

Serve this soup hot and fresh out of the pot with crusty bread on the side. For a heartier meal, pair it with German sausages like bratwurst or a German-style pretzel. You can also top each bowl with a spoonful of sour cream or a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness.

Presentation Ideas for German Potato Soup

• Rustic Bowls: Serve the soup in rustic, earth-toned bowls to match the hearty nature of the dish.
• Bread Bowl: Hollow out a small loaf of bread and serve the soup inside for a fun, edible bowl.
• Herb Garnish: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness.

German Potato Soup Recipe Tips

• Meal Prep: This soup is perfect for meal prepping. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and tastes even better as the flavors meld together.
• Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Adjust the Thickness: If your soup is too thick, add a bit more broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it longer to let it thicken naturally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make German Potato Soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup stores well and can be made 1-2 days in advance. The flavors develop beautifully as it sits in the fridge.

Can I freeze German Potato Soup?
Yes! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Reheat it slowly on the stovetop when you’re ready to eat.

What are the best potatoes to use for this soup?
Starchy potatoes like russets are ideal because they break down and create a creamier texture. However, Yukon Gold potatoes also work well if you prefer a bit more structure in your soup.

Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! Simply omit the sausage or use vegan sausages, and replace the cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut milk or almond cream.

What can I serve with German Potato Soup?
Crusty bread, German sausages, or a light salad are great side dishes. A cold beer also pairs perfectly with this hearty soup.

Conclusion

German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Its rich, creamy texture, combined with the smoky flavors of sausage and earthy potatoes, make it a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or try some of the variations, this soup will become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your ingredients and start cooking—you’re in for a hearty, delicious treat!

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