Time to Complete: 50 minutes
Introduction:
Hearty and wholesomely delicious, the Old-Fashioned Potato & Bacon Soup is a comforting delight for cold winter nights. With a rich, creamy base infused with flavorful bacon and tender potatoes, this soup is an old-fashioned classic redefined for the modern kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe:
If the cozy warmth of a flavorful soup fascinates you, then Old-Fashioned Potato & Bacon Soup is a must-try. It is not just the simplicity of this recipe that impresses; the combination of bacon, potatoes, and cream creates a texture and flavor that is both satiating and satisfying.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Potato & Bacon Soup:
Ingredients:
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Directions :
1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon until it turns crispy. Set the bacon aside but leave the drippings in the pot.
2. Add the diced onion to the bacon drippings and sauté until they turn translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an extra minute.
4. Add potatoes and chicken broth to the pot. Ensure it boils before reducing the heat to allow it simmer until potatoes are tender.
5. Using a potato masher or immersion blender, mash some of the potatoes in the pot for a chunky texture.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
7. Let it simmer for 5 more minutes.
8. Once hot enough, serve garnished with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Potato & Bacon Soup:
This hearty soup can be served hot, plain, or with a warm, crusty French baguette for added texture and flavor. Garnish with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and green onions to enhance its appeal.
How to Store Old-Fashioned Potato & Bacon Soup:
Store the leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months for future servings.
Tips to Make Old-Fashioned Potato & Bacon Soup:
For a vegetarian variation, you can replace the bacon and chicken broth with vegetable broth and top with crispy fried onions. Choose potatoes that are starchy, like Russet potatoes, as they break down well and make the soup creamier.
Variations:
This recipe is adaptable to include other ingredients according to your preference. You can add other vegetables like sweet corn, bell peppers or even include proteins like smoked sausage.
FAQs:
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can. Just place all the ingredients in the slow cooker and set it on low for 6 to 8 hours.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. However, remember to do this before adding the cream, as cream doesn’t freeze well.
3. What kind of potatoes should I use for this soup?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds are perfect for this soup as they break down well, making the soup naturally creamy.