Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup

Description

I have made this for many whom have given it the title. This takes a bit of effort but is well worth it. Please note: for those who do not wish to use bacon, substitute 1/4 cup melted butter for the bacon grease and continue with the recipe. (I generally serve this soup as a special treat as it is not recommended for people counting calories.)

Ingredients

  • 1 pound bacon, chopped
  • 2 stalks celery, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cups chicken stock, or enough to cover potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • ΒΌ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon dried tarragon
  • 3 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Place bacon in a Dutch oven and cook over medium-high heat
  2. turning occasionally
  3. until evenly browned
  4. 5 to 10 minutes. Drain bacon pieces on paper towels. Drain off all but 1/4 cup of the bacon grease.
  5. Cook celery and onion in the reserved bacon drippings until onion is soft and translucent
  6. about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic
  7. and continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes. Add cubed potatoes
  8. and toss to coat. Saute for 3 to 4 minutes. Return bacon to the pan
  9. and add enough chicken stock to just cover the potatoes. Cover
  10. and simmer until potatoes are tender
  11. 15 to 20 minutes.
  12. Meanwhile
  13. melt butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Whisk in flour. Cook
  14. stirring constantly
  15. 1 to 2 minutes. Whisk in heavy cream
  16. tarragon
  17. and cilantro. Bring cream mixture to a boil
  18. and cook
  19. stirring constantly
  20. until thickened
  21. about 5 minutes. Add cream mixture to the potato mixture; stir to combine.
  22. Transfer about 1/2 of the soup to a blender and puree. Return to the Dutch oven. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Total Time: 50 mins

Servings: 8

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