German Potato Soup

by

🥔 German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe)

📖 Description

German Potato Soup, known as Kartoffelsuppe, is a hearty, comforting dish traditionally enjoyed across Germany, especially in colder months. Unlike smooth potato soups, this version is usually rustic and chunky, featuring potatoes, vegetables, herbs, and often sausage or bacon. It’s nourishing, filling, and deeply flavorful, reflecting classic German home cooking.

⏱️ Preparation Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes

  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

  • Total Time: 50 minutes

🍽️ Servings

Serves: 4–6 people

🧾 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and diced

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 2 carrots, diced

  • 1 leek (white part only), sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken broth

  • 1 cup water (adjust as needed)

  • 1 bay leaf

  • 1 tsp dried marjoram (traditional)

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional (Traditional Additions)

  • 4 oz (120 g) bacon, diced

  • 2 German sausages (Bratwurst or Wiener), sliced

  • ½ cup cream or milk (optional, for creaminess)

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped

  • Crusty bread or rye bread (for serving)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Cook Bacon (Optional):
    In a large pot, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the fat in the pot.

  2. Sauté Vegetables:
    Add onion, carrots, leek, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

  3. Add Potatoes & Seasoning:
    Stir in diced potatoes, bay leaf, marjoram, salt, and pepper.

  4. Simmer:
    Pour in broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes until potatoes are tender.

  5. Blend (Partially):
    Remove bay leaf. Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving chunks for texture.

  6. Add Sausage & Cream:
    Stir in sausage and cream (if using). Simmer for another 5 minutes.

  7. Finish & Serve:
    Taste and adjust seasoning. Top with crispy bacon and fresh herbs before serving.

 Notes

  • Authentic German potato soup is not fully puréed—it should be thick and chunky.

  • Marjoram is key to the traditional flavor; avoid substituting unless necessary.

  • The soup thickens more as it cools.

💡 Tips for Best Results

  • Use starchy potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet) for a creamier texture.

  • For vegetarian versions, skip meat and use vegetable broth.

  • Add a splash of vinegar or mustard at the end for a subtle German-style tang.

  • This soup tastes even better the next day.

🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

  • Calories: 280–320 kcal

  • Protein: 9–12 g

  • Carbohydrates: 35–40 g

  • Fat: 12–15 g

  • Fiber: 4–5 g

  • Sodium: Varies by broth and sausage

🌱 Health Benefits

  • Potatoes provide energy, potassium, and vitamin C

  • Carrots & leeks add antioxidants and fiber

  • Protein from sausage supports muscle health

  • Can be adapted to vegetarian or low-fat diets

❓ Questions & Answers (Q/A)

Q: Can I make German potato soup vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use vegetable broth and skip bacon and sausage. Add smoked paprika for depth.

Q: Can I freeze Kartoffelsuppe?
A: Yes, but avoid adding cream before freezing. Add dairy after reheating.

Q: What makes it “German” compared to regular potato soup?
A: The use of marjoram, leeks, rustic texture, and traditional sausages distinguishes it.

Q: How long does it last in the fridge?
A: Up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Naturally gluten-free—just ensure sausages and broth contain no gluten.

Leave a Comment