Few dishes capture the essence of warmth and comfort like a steaming bowl of German Potato Soup, or Kartoffelsuppe. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and hearty vegetables, this traditional German favorite has been a staple on tables across Europe for generations. For many, it evokes memories of cozy family dinners, crisp autumn evenings, and the simple joy of a homemade meal.
What makes this soup truly special is its versatility. It’s naturally hearty enough to satisfy as a main meal but can also serve as a starter or side. The combination of potatoes, carrots, and celery, subtly seasoned with marjoram, nutmeg, and bay leaves, creates a depth of flavor that’s both soothing and satisfying. Adding vegan sausage or a splash of dairy-free cream can elevate it further, making it an indulgent yet wholesome dish. Perfect for those seeking a comforting, plant-forward recipe that doesn’t compromise on taste, this German Potato Soup is a must-try for every home cook.
Recipe Overview
German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) is a creamy, hearty vegetable soup with tender chunks of potatoes, carrots, and celery, gently seasoned with traditional German herbs and spices. It’s typically finished with a swirl of cream and fresh parsley, with optional vegan sausage for extra protein. Easy to prepare, this soup delivers authentic German flavors in a comforting bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or as a wholesome family meal.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 stalks celery (or ½ small celery root), diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 pounds (900 g) potatoes, chopped
- ½ tsp dried marjoram
- 1 pinch nutmeg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups (1000 ml) vegetable broth (or water)
- 2 whole bay leaves (optional)
- ⅓ cup (80 g) dairy-free cream
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Vegan sausage, sliced (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, until it begins to soften and become translucent. Stir in garlic, celery, carrots, potatoes, marjoram, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, letting the flavors mingle.
Tip: Toasting the spices with the vegetables for a minute enhances their aroma and flavor.
2. Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth and add bay leaves if using. Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer until all the vegetables are tender—about 15–20 minutes depending on potato size.
Pro Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to ensure even cooking.
3. Blend Part of the Soup
Carefully pour about half of the soup into another pot, removing the bay leaves. Using an immersion blender, puree this portion until smooth.
Return the blended soup to the large pot, creating a creamy base while still leaving some vegetable chunks for texture.
4. Finish with Cream and Seasoning
Stir in the dairy-free cream and allow the soup to simmer gently for a few more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat.
Tip: For a richer flavor, add a teaspoon of mustard or smoked paprika to the cream.
5. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and, if desired, add slices of vegan sausage on top for added protein and texture. Serve warm with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Add More Vegetables
While potatoes, carrots, and celery form the base, you can include leeks, parsnips, or turnips for extra depth and nutrition.
2. Spice It Up
For a spicy twist, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while simmering.
3. Creamy or Chunky
If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only a small portion. For a silky smooth texture, puree the entire batch.
4. Protein Options
Add vegan sausage, smoked tofu, or even cooked lentils for a heartier, protein-rich meal.
5. Make Ahead
This soup tastes even better the next day. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions or the whole batch for up to 2 months.
- Serving: Pair with crusty bread, pretzels, or a light salad for a balanced meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten the flavors.
This versatile soup is perfect as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or even a starter for a larger meal.
German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) is the ultimate comfort dish, combining creamy texture with wholesome vegetables and aromatic spices. It’s simple to make, fully customizable, and satisfies both vegan and vegetarian diets with ease. Perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week, this soup embodies the heartwarming essence of traditional German cooking.
One bowl is enough to make you feel cozy, nourished, and ready to relax. With its balance of flavors, creamy consistency, and optional protein additions, it’s a dish that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Using vegetable broth and dairy-free cream keeps it fully vegan. Optional vegan sausage adds protein and flavor.
2. Can I freeze Kartoffelsuppe?
Absolutely. Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
3. How can I make it creamier without dairy?
Use dairy-free cream, coconut milk, or blended cashews to achieve a creamy texture.
4. Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a dash of smoked paprika to taste.
5. What sides pair well with German Potato Soup?
Crusty bread, pretzels, light salads, or roasted vegetables complement the soup beautifully.
German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) is a creamy, hearty, and vegan-friendly soup made with potatoes, carrots, celery, and aromatic spices. Perfect comfort food!