Potato Basque Soup
A hearty Basque-inspired potato soup with spicy sausage, tender potatoes, and fresh herbs, perfect for comforting meals and gatherings with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Italian sausage or Spanish chorizo, sliced ⓘ
- 1/2 c. chopped onion ⓘ
- 2 c. tomatoes ⓘ
- 4 potatoes, pared and diced ⓘ
- 1/4 c. chopped parsley ⓘ
- 1 c. diagonally sliced celery ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. chopped celery leaves ⓘ
- 1 1/2 c. water
- 2 beef bouillon cubes ⓘ
- 1 bay leaf ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. dried leaf thyme ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown sausage over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add tomatoes, diced potatoes, chopped parsley, sliced celery, chopped celery leaves, water, beef bouillon cubes, bay leaf, salt, and thyme.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 40 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using Spanish chorizo instead of Italian sausage, as it adds a smoky depth to the soup. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, you can substitute the sausage with mushrooms and vegetable broth. Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor, so try adding a bit of fresh thyme or basil at the end. This soup also pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Potato Basque Soup hot, garnished with extra chopped parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs well with a side salad or crusty artisan bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a classic dish like Old Fashioned Irish Stew. A splash of hot sauce can add a nice kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato Basque Soup contains roughly 573 calories, with 22g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (157% of the Daily Value), iron (112% of the Daily Value), and potassium (85% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 481mg per serving (21% 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 use different types of potatoes for this soup?
Yes, you can use different varieties of potatoes like Yukon Gold or Russet. Each type will provide a slightly different texture and flavor. Just make sure to dice them uniformly to ensure even cooking. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower can also be used as a substitute.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider including diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when you sauté the onions. If you want a more complex flavor, try adding some smoked paprika or a splash of hot sauce to the finished soup. This can create a delightful balance and enhance the overall taste.
What can I serve with Potato Basque Soup?
This soup pairs excellently with a variety of sides. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast. Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping. For a more filling meal, consider serving it with a side of Spicy Sausage And Lentil Stew to complement the flavors.
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).