What To Know
- Once the potatoes are tender, remove about 1 cup of the soup from the pot and transfer it to a blender.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the soup has thickened.
- To make the soup vegan, replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil and use a plant-based milk substitute.
Craving a warm and comforting bowl of potato soup but concerned about the heavy cream calories? Fear not! With this guide, you’ll discover how to make a creamy and satisfying potato soup without the use of heavy cream.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk or unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: chives, bacon bits, shredded cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Potatoes
Stir in the cubed potatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to brown slightly.
3. Pour in the Broth
Add the vegetable or chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Make the Roux
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and milk until smooth. Set aside.
5. Thicken the Soup
Once the potatoes are tender, remove about 1 cup of the soup from the pot and transfer it to a blender. Add the roux mixture and blend until smooth.
6. Return the Puree
Pour the pureed mixture back into the pot and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the soup has thickened.
7. Season to Taste
Add salt and pepper to taste. You can also adjust the consistency by adding more broth or milk as needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the creamy potato soup into bowls and top with your favorite toppings, such as chives, bacon bits, or shredded cheese.
Tips for a Richer Flavor
- Use a variety of potatoes for a more complex flavor.
- Add a splash of white wine to the soup for depth.
- Simmer the soup for longer for a more intense flavor.
- Top the soup with crispy fried onions for a crunchy contrast.
Healthier Variations
- Replace the butter with olive oil for a healthier fat option.
- Use skim milk or unsweetened almond milk for a lower-calorie soup.
- Add chopped vegetables, such as carrots or celery, for extra nutrients.
Key Points: Savor the Creamy Goodness Without the Guilt
Indulge in a comforting bowl of creamy potato soup without sacrificing your health. This simple and delicious recipe proves that you can enjoy rich flavors without the heavy cream. So, grab your ingredients and let the warmth and satisfaction of this guilt-free soup fill your kitchen.
Questions You May Have
Q: Can I use other types of milk besides milk or almond milk?
A: Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as soy milk, oat milk, or cashew milk.
Q: How can I make the soup vegan?
A: To make the soup vegan, replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil and use a plant-based milk substitute.
Q: Can I add other seasonings to the soup?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of your soup. Some suggestions include thyme, rosemary, paprika, or chili powder.
