Few dishes evoke the warmth and comfort of home quite like a steaming bowl of German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe). Originating from Germany’s rustic kitchens, this soup has been cherished for generations for its simplicity, heartiness, and rich, creamy texture. There’s something about the blend of tender potatoes, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices that makes it perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or even a light lunch.
For me, Kartoffelsuppe has always been more than a meal—it’s nostalgia in a bowl. Growing up, the aroma of sautéed onions and garlic, mingling with marjoram and nutmeg, would fill the kitchen on weekends. My family would gather around, eagerly waiting for the first taste of the creamy, comforting soup, often paired with fresh bread. This recipe brings that same warmth to your table, offering a vegan-friendly twist that is equally indulgent and satisfying.
Whether you’re new to German cuisine or a seasoned fan, this German Potato Soup combines classic flavors with a modern, plant-based approach. It’s easy to prepare, fully customizable, and guaranteed to warm your heart and stomach.
Recipe Overview
German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) is a creamy, flavorful soup made from tender potatoes, sautéed vegetables, and aromatic spices. With a blend of smooth and chunky textures, it can be served as a hearty lunch or a comforting dinner. Adding dairy-free cream and optional vegan sausage keeps it fully plant-based without compromising richness.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need to make this classic soup, along with tips to ensure perfect results every time.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp oil (olive, sunflower, or your choice)
- 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 onion and sauté for about 3 minutes, until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Add garlic, celery, carrots, potatoes, marjoram, nutmeg, salt, and pepper, and sauté for another minute to awaken the flavors.
Pro Tip: Toasting the spices briefly in the oil enhances their aroma and depth, giving your soup a richer taste.
2. Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth and add bay leaves if using. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender, usually about 15–20 minutes depending on the size of your potato chunks.
3. Blend Part of the Soup
Remove about half of the soup and discard the bay leaves. Using an immersion blender, blend until smooth. This creates a creamy base while keeping some chunks intact for texture.
Tip: For extra creaminess, you can blend slightly more than half of the soup, but leave some pieces of potato for a hearty bite.
4. Combine and Add Cream
Return the blended soup to the large pot. Stir in dairy-free cream and simmer for a few minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
5. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Add slices of vegan sausage if desired for a protein boost and added flavor. Serve hot with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Vegetables and Flavor Enhancements
- Swap celery stalks with celery root for a deeper, earthy flavor.
- Add leeks or parsnips for a twist on the classic recipe.
- For extra spice, sprinkle in smoked paprika or cayenne.
2. Cream Alternatives
- Use coconut cream, cashew cream, or soy cream as a dairy-free option.
- For a richer flavor, swirl in a little vegan butter.
3. Protein Add-Ins
- Vegan sausage slices or smoked tofu make this soup more filling.
- Chickpeas or white beans can also add texture and protein.
4. Texture Adjustments
- For a completely smooth soup, blend all the vegetables.
- For a chunkier version, blend only a third of the soup, leaving larger potato pieces for a rustic feel.
5. Make Ahead
- The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your German Potato Soup with:
- Crusty bread or pretzel rolls for dipping
- A fresh green salad to balance the richness
- Pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast
This soup is comforting enough to enjoy on its own or as part of a larger German-inspired meal.
German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) is the perfect combination of comfort, nutrition, and flavor. Its creamy, hearty texture paired with aromatic vegetables makes it a satisfying dish for any occasion. Vegan-friendly, versatile, and easy to prepare, this soup can be customized to suit your taste, whether you prefer a smooth texture or chunky rustic style.
From cozy weeknights to family gatherings, this soup warms both the heart and the soul. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can bring a taste of Germany into your kitchen and create a dish that everyone will love.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Use vegetable broth, dairy-free cream, and optional vegan sausage.
2. Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely—ensure the vegetable broth and any add-ins are gluten-free.
3. How long can I store the soup?
Up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes! Carrots, parsnips, leeks, or even zucchini work beautifully.
5. How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika to taste.
German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) is a creamy, hearty vegan-friendly soup with potatoes, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for cozy dinners and family meals.
