Irish Potato Soup

Irish Potato Soup

Irish Potato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish made with simple ingredients like potatoes, leeks, onions, and stock.

This creamy soup is perfect for colder weather and has a deliciously rustic and satisfying flavor. It’s a classic Irish recipe that’s both filling and easy to make, with the potatoes being the star of the show.

Here’s a simple recipe for Irish Potato Soup:

Irish Potato Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

Potatoes: 4-5 medium, peeled and diced (preferably a waxy variety like Yukon Gold)

Leeks: 2 medium, cleaned and sliced (use only the white and light green parts)

Onion: 1 medium, chopped

Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

Vegetable or chicken stock: 4 cups

Butter: 2 tablespoons

Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (optional, for creaminess)

Milk: 1/2 cup (or more, depending on desired consistency)

Fresh thyme: 1 teaspoon (optional)

Salt and pepper: to taste

Fresh parsley or chives: chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Vegetables:

Peel and dice the potatoes. Clean and slice the leeks, discarding the dark green tops. Chop the onion and garlic.

Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, leeks, and garlic, and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are softened and translucent. Be careful not to brown them.

Add the Potatoes and Stock:

Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.

Blend the Soup:

Once the potatoes are tender, remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy, or transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. You can blend it until completely smooth or leave some chunks for texture, depending on your preference.

Add the Cream and Milk:

Stir in the heavy cream for a richer texture (optional), and add milk to reach your desired consistency. If you prefer a lighter version, you can skip the cream and just use milk.

Season the Soup:

Taste the soup and season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme (if using). Adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

Tips:

For extra flavor: Add a bay leaf or a few sprigs of fresh thyme while the soup simmers, and remove them before blending.

For a lighter version: You can skip the cream and use just milk or even broth for a lower-fat option.

Texture: If you prefer a smoother soup, you can strain it after blending for an ultra-creamy texture.

Topping Ideas: Top with crispy bacon bits, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness and flavor.

Irish Potato Soup is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that celebrates the humble potato. It’s creamy, flavorful, and easy to make, making it a perfect choice for a cozy meal. Enjoy this comforting soup as a starter or a main course, especially on a chilly day!