Potato and Bacon Soup

A hearty and comforting Potato and Bacon Soup recipe that’s perfect for cold winter days. It’s a delicious blend of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and flavorful broth that will warm you up from the inside out.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of bacon, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 1 cup of milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped chives, for garnish

Instructions:

• In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set aside.
• In the same pot, add the onion and garlic. Cook until softened.
• Add the potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender.
• Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches.
• Stir in the milk and season with salt and pepper.
• Serve the soup garnished with the crispy bacon and chopped chives.

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

A: Yes, you can definitely substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon in this recipe for a healthier option.

• Q: Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

A: Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly.

• Q: Is it okay to leave the skin on the potatoes?

A: While peeling the potatoes is recommended for a smoother texture, leaving the skin on will add extra nutrients and a rustic look to the soup.

Helpful tips:

• For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or potato masher instead of blending them completely.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a hint of spice.
• Garnish with shredded cheddar cheese or sour cream for extra richness.
• You can add chopped kale or spinach for added nutrition and color.

Expert Secrets:

• Cook the bacon slowly over medium heat to render out more fat and achieve crispiness without burning.
• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture or russet potatoes for a firmer texture in the soup.
• Try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end for a subtle tang that balances the richness of the soup.
• Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance the flavor profile of the soup.