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Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup recipe

Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup

This decadent and velvety potato soup is a timeless favorite, offering comfort and warmth on the coldest days. Brimming with rich flavors and a creamy consistency, it is traditionally garnished with crisp bacon, fresh green onions, or sharp Cheddar cheese for an indulgent finishing touch.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 5 People
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 potatoes peeled and cut into cubes
  • 1 pound bacon chopped
  • 1 onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 4 cups chicken stock or enough to cover the potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
  • 3 teaspoons freshly chopped cilantro
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Prepare all ingredients before beginning.
  2. In a Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until evenly browned, about 5–10 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain, reserving approximately ¼ cup of the rendered fat in the pot.
  3. Sauté the celery and onion in the reserved bacon drippings over medium heat until the onion turns translucent, roughly 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes more.
  4. Stir in the cubed potatoes, coating them well with the aromatic mixture. Cook for 3–4 minutes, then return the bacon to the pot. Pour in enough chicken stock to cover the potatoes, cover the pot, and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15–20 minutes.
  5. In a separate skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly. Gradually incorporate the heavy cream, dried tarragon, and cilantro, whisking until the mixture is smooth and combined.
  6. Bring the cream mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until thickened, approximately 5 minutes. Add it to the potato and bacon mixture, blending thoroughly.
  7. For a balanced texture, transfer half of the soup to a blender and purée until smooth. Return the puréed portion to the pot and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  8. Serve hot, accompanied by your choice of garnishes.

Notes

For a bacon-free version, replace the rendered fat with ¼ cup melted butter.