Description
This creamy potato and caramelized onion soup combines tender potatoes with deeply caramelized onions for a rich, comforting bowl of soup. Enhanced with garlic, thyme, and a hint of smoked paprika, it’s pureed to a smooth, velvety texture and finished with heavy cream for extra richness. Garnished with fresh chives, this American-inspired vegetarian soup is perfect for cozy meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Caramelize the Onions: Heat the butter and olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook slowly for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become deeply golden and caramelized, developing a rich sweetness.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring the garlic does not burn for the best flavor.
- Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Add the diced potatoes, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika if using. Stir to coat the potatoes and spices thoroughly.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to a simmer and let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and puree until velvety.
- Finish with Cream: Stir in the heavy cream and gently warm the soup through without boiling to maintain the cream’s texture and flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh chives for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- For added depth, splash some white wine into the onions while caramelizing.
- Bacon bits or crispy croutons make excellent toppings for added texture.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Using vegetable broth keeps this soup vegetarian-friendly.
