Potato soup is probably one of the simplest soups to make, and it is so healthy and full of flavor. The potato itself has played a major role in the diet of many cultures. From Ireland to Africa, the potato
has been prepared in endless ways throughout history. Mashed, baked, boiled, or fried, potatoes are a culinary staple. One particular recipe is potato soup. Originally, potato soup consisted of only water and potatoes boiled over an open
fire. Considered a poor man's meal long ago, this soup recipe no longer resembles its primitive ancestor.
Today potato soup is creamy, decadent, and full of all kinds of ingredients. No longer watery and flavorless, this recipe is served mostly during the fall and winter. Most think of potato soup as one of those comfort foods that warms
the soul and refuels the body. This very filling soup is generally found to have the addition of peas or ham, especially in the south. In the north, potato soup has kept its Irish roots and is typically served up with onions, celery,
butter, chicken stock, and milk.
Other variations of this recipe include a baked potato style soup. This soup is very rich and includes bacon, cheddar cheese, onions, and heavy cream. There are also potato soup recipes that call for leeks, mushrooms, or cabbage. Some
even mash the potatoes slightly to give the soup a thicker, creamier texture. When it comes to choosing potatoes for this recipe, the sky is the limit. Just about any potato will do, even sweet potatoes can be used for a sweeter version.
Warm, smooth, and very comforting, potato soup can be made so many ways, and with so many ingredients. This recipe is perfect all by itself, or it can be accompanied with a salad. If served alone, vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower
can be added to create a one dish dinner. Potatoes are healthy for the body, but depending on the ingredients added will determine the calorie content. A good rule of thumb if on a diet is that less is always better. The fewer ingredients
used, the lower the calories. Regardless of the variations chosen, potato soup will definitely hit the spot.
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