Creamy Herb-Infused Potato Soup
This rich and creamy potato soup is perfect for any occasion, offering comfort and warmth in every spoonful. Combining the hearty flavors of tender potatoes and aromatic herbs like parsley and cilantro, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you choose to prepare it in a slow cooker for a hands-off experience or whip it up in just 25 minutes on the stove top, this recipe is versatile enough for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend lunches. With optional toppings like French-fried onions or croutons, and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, you can easily customize this soul-soothing soup to your taste.
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
large potatoes
5-6 (cubed)
large onion
1 (diced)
margarine
2 (tablespoons)
chicken bouillon cubes
3 (or about 2-3 tablespoons of bouillon paste)
parsley
3 (tablespoons, chopped)
cilantro
2 (tablespoons, chopped)
water
3 (cups)
evaporated milk
1 (12-ounce) can
flour
1/4 (cup)
French-fried onions
to taste (optional, for garnish)
croutons
to taste (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1
In a crock pot, combine cubed potatoes, diced onion, margarine, chicken bouillon, parsley, cilantro, and water.
2
Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or until potatoes are tender. For stove top, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3
In a separate bowl, mix the flour and evaporated milk together until smooth. Stir this mixture into the soup 30 minutes before serving in the crock pot, or after the potatoes are tender if using the stove top.
4
Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until thickened.
5
Serve hot, garnished with French-fried onions or croutons and shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Herb-Infused Potato Soup?
It is a rich and hearty soup featuring tender potatoes, aromatic parsley, and cilantro, designed for comfort and warmth.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Can I cook this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, it can be cooked in a crock pot on low for 6 to 8 hours until the potatoes are tender.
Is there a faster stove top method?
Yes, you can prepare the soup on the stove top in approximately 25 minutes by boiling and then simmering the mixture.
What type of potatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for 5-6 large potatoes that should be cubed before cooking.
What herbs provide the flavor for this soup?
The primary herbs used are 3 tablespoons of chopped parsley and 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro.
How do I thicken the soup?
The soup is thickened using a smooth mixture of 1/4 cup flour and one 12-ounce can of evaporated milk.
When should I add the thickening mixture in a crock pot?
Stir the flour and evaporated milk mixture into the soup 30 minutes before you plan to serve it.
When do I add the thickening mixture on the stove top?
Add the mixture after the potatoes have become tender, then simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
What kind of onion is required?
You will need one large onion, diced.
Can I use bouillon paste instead of cubes?
Yes, you can substitute the 3 chicken bouillon cubes with approximately 2-3 tablespoons of bouillon paste.
What are the recommended toppings?
Optional garnishes include French-fried onions, croutons, and shredded cheddar cheese.
Is margarine necessary for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of margarine, which adds richness to the broth.
How much water is needed?
You will need 3 cups of water for the base of the soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, simply swap the chicken bouillon for vegetable bouillon cubes or paste.
How long should the soup simmer after adding the milk and flour?
Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until it reaches your desired thickness.
Do I need to mix the flour and milk separately?
Yes, mix them in a separate bowl until smooth before adding to the soup to prevent lumps.
Is this recipe suitable for a busy weeknight?
Yes, the stove top version takes only about 25 minutes, making it ideal for quick meals.
What is the preparation for the potatoes?
The potatoes should be cubed into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
What is the preparation for the onion?
The onion should be finely diced before being added to the pot.
Can I use dried herbs?
While fresh parsley and cilantro are recommended for the best flavor, dried herbs can be used in smaller quantities if necessary.
How much evaporated milk is required?
One 12-ounce can of evaporated milk is used to create the creamy texture.
Should I cover the pot while cooking?
Yes, cover the crock pot or stove top pot to retain heat and moisture while the potatoes soften.
Is this soup gluten-free?
No, it contains 1/4 cup of flour as a thickener, but you could substitute a gluten-free flour blend.
What texture should the potatoes have?
The potatoes should be tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, adding carrots or celery during the initial cooking phase would complement the potato base.
How do I serve this soup?
Serve it hot in bowls, topped with crunchy onions or croutons and melted cheese.
What does the chicken bouillon add to the recipe?
The bouillon provides a savory, salty depth to the liquid base of the soup.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store any remaining soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
How do I reheat the soup?
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it has thickened too much.