German Potato Soup
A hearty and tangy soup featuring tender potatoes and crispy bacon in a savory vinegar-laced broth. This classic German-American comfort food, known as Kartoffelsuppe, is perfect for a chilly day and comes together in under an hour.
For 4 servings
6 steps. 30 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook the Bacon
- b.Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- c.Add the chopped bacon and cook, stirring occasionally, until crisp (about 8-10 minutes).
- d.Using a slotted spoon, transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Set aside for garnish.
- e.Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat from the pot.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the Aromatics
- b.Add the chopped onion and celery to the pot with the reserved bacon fat.
- c.Sauté, stirring frequently, until the vegetables have softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Build the Soup Base
- b.If using, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables. Stir constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. This will create a light roux to thicken the soup.
- c.Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps.
- d.Add the cubed potatoes, salt, pepper, and optional caraway seeds to the pot. Stir to combine.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer Until Tender
- b.Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil.
- c.Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Finish and Season
- b.Turn off the heat. Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently mash about one-third of the potatoes directly in the pot. This thickens the soup naturally while leaving nice chunks of potato.
- c.Stir in the apple cider vinegar and half of the chopped fresh parsley.
- d.Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want more salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar for extra tang.
- 6
Step 6
- a.Serve
- b.Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- c.Garnish with the reserved crispy bacon and the remaining fresh parsley before serving.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or fingerlings. They hold their shape well and create a creamy consistency when mashed.
- 2The apple cider vinegar is crucial for the soup's signature tangy flavor. Start with the recommended amount and add more at the end if you prefer a sharper taste.
- 3This soup develops more flavor as it sits. It's an excellent make-ahead meal and often tastes even better the next day.
- 4Don't over-mash the potatoes. The goal is to thicken the soup slightly while maintaining plenty of tender potato chunks for texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Sausage
For an even heartier soup, add sliced and browned bratwurst or kielbasa along with the potatoes.
Make it CreamyMake it Creamy
Stir in 1/4 to 1/2 cup of heavy cream or a large dollop of sour cream at the end for a richer, creamier consistency.
Vegetarian VersionVegetarian Version
Omit the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter to sauté the vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Add More VeggiesAdd More Veggies
Incorporate other classic German soup vegetables like chopped carrots or leeks. Add them with the onions and celery.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Provides Sustained Energy
The complex carbohydrates from potatoes offer a steady release of energy, helping to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.
Rich in Potassium
Potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, an essential mineral and electrolyte that plays a key role in maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function.
Source of Antioxidants
Onions and garlic contain beneficial compounds like quercetin and allicin, which have antioxidant properties that help combat inflammation and support a healthy immune system.
Frequently asked questions
A typical 1.5-cup serving of this German Potato Soup contains approximately 330-380 calories, depending on the thickness of the bacon and whether you add cream.