Granny Simonson'S Potato Soup
A hearty, comforting potato soup infused with smoky bacon and herbs, perfect for cozy meals and suitable for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel and dice the potatoes and carrots. Peel and wash the onions. Peel and dice the celery stalks.
- In a large pot, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside, reserving the drippings.
- Add the onions, carrots, and celery to the pot with the bacon drippings. Sauté for a few minutes until vegetables start to soften.
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in water to cover the vegetables.
- Add the sweet basil, garlic powder, thyme, parsley, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for about 1 hour until all vegetables are tender, adding water as needed to maintain broth consistency.
- Remove the bacon, chop it, and add back into the soup if desired. Stir well and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the soup before serving. You can also substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version. If you're short on time, pre-diced frozen potatoes can be a convenient alternative. Enhance the flavor by adding a splash of cream or milk towards the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty potato soup alongside crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Hill Country Potato Salad for a delightful contrast. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or crispy bacon bits for added flavor and texture. Enjoy it as a comforting lunch or a cozy dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little water if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny Simonson'S Potato Soup contains roughly 1399 calories, with 27g protein, 194g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (106% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2010mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this potato soup a day ahead of time. The flavors will deepen as it sits. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating. When reheating, add a bit of water or broth to adjust the consistency, as it may thicken after chilling.
What if I don't have all the herbs?
If you don't have sweet basil or thyme, feel free to substitute with Italian seasoning or a mix of other dried herbs you have on hand. Fresh herbs can also be used if available, just add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products. Just ensure that any broth or additional seasonings you use are labeled gluten-free. This makes it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).