Get ready to dive into a bowl of creamy, dreamy potato soup topped with fluffy dumplings that’ll make your taste buds sing. This recipe is your ticket to comfort food heaven, perfect for those chilly evenings or when you’re just in need of some serious comfort.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of creamy potato soup and light, fluffy dumplings creates a perfect texture contrast.
- Using russet potatoes ensures a creamy soup base without the need for heavy cream.
- The dumplings are easy to make and cook right on top of the soup, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
- This recipe is customizable with various add-ins like bacon, cheese, or herbs to suit your taste.
- It’s a one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your delicious creation.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Soup Base
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation of your soup, so don’t rush it. Tip: If you love a bit of crunch, you can add some diced celery here too.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. The potatoes should be soft enough to mash slightly against the side of the pot, thickening the soup naturally.
Step 3: Make the Dumpling Dough
While the soup simmers, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir in the milk until just combined. The dough should be sticky but manageable. Overmixing can lead to tough dumplings, so mix until the ingredients are just incorporated.
Step 4: Add the Dumplings
Drop tablespoon-sized portions of the dumpling dough into the simmering soup. Cover the pot with a lid and let the dumplings cook for about 15 minutes. They should puff up and become light and fluffy. Tip: Resist the urge to peek too often; keeping the lid on ensures the dumplings cook evenly.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Once the dumplings are cooked through, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This dish is best enjoyed immediately, as the dumplings can become soggy if left sitting in the soup for too long.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra flavor boost, consider sautéing some bacon bits before adding the onions and garlic, then use the bacon fat as your cooking fat. If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and add a splash of cream for richness. To ensure your dumplings are light and fluffy, make sure your baking powder is fresh. If you’re in a hurry, you can use pre-diced frozen potatoes, though the texture might be slightly different. Finally, for a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the dumplings.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the soup before adding the dumplings for a cheesy twist.
- Herb Garden: Mix chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill into the dumpling dough for an herby flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the soup base for some heat.
- Meaty Version: Brown some sausage or diced ham with the onions and garlic for a heartier meal.
- Vegetable Packed: Add carrots, celery, or peas to the soup for extra veggies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free flour blend for the dumplings. Just ensure the blend contains a binder like xanthan gum to help the dumplings hold together. The soup itself is naturally gluten-free, making this an easy swap.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Note that the dumplings may absorb more liquid and become softer upon reheating.
Can I freeze this soup?
While you can freeze the soup base, it’s best to make fresh dumplings when serving. The texture of the dumplings can change significantly after freezing and reheating, becoming dense and gummy. If you do freeze the soup, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and adding fresh dumplings.
Summary
This potato soup and dumplings recipe is the epitome of comfort food, combining creamy soup with fluffy dumplings in a one-pot meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. With options for customization and tips for perfection, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.