Potato Garlic Vichyssoise

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: French

A silky, chilled potato and garlic soup with a subtle nutmeg flavor and creamy finish, perfect for a refreshing appetizer or light meal during warmer months.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 Tbsp. virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium head garlic, peeled and finely chopped
  • 1 1/2 lb. potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 5 c. chicken broth
  • salt
  • freshly ground pepper
  • grating of nutmeg
  • 1 c. light cream

Instructions

  1. In a large, heavy saucepan, cook the chopped onion in the olive oil until soft, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add the garlic and diced potatoes and toss with the onion.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, then season with salt, freshly ground pepper, and a grating of nutmeg.
  4. Simmer for 15 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
  5. Use a potato masher or the back of a large spoon to mash the potatoes coarsely, resulting in an uneven texture.
  6. Continue simmering until the soup thickens slightly.
  7. Add the light cream and milk, then heat slowly to a gentle simmer.
  8. Adjust seasoning if necessary, then chill the soup thoroughly.
  9. Serve cold.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, blend the soup after mashing the potatoes, but keep some chunks for texture. If you want a lighter version, substitute the light cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can brighten the flavors. For added depth, consider adding a splash of white wine when cooking the onions.

Serving Suggestions

This potato garlic vichyssoise is perfect as a starter or light meal. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Shoyu Chicken Wings for a delightful contrast of flavors. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant touch.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the vichyssoise on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling. You can also serve it at room temperature for a refreshing option.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Potato Garlic Vichyssoise contains roughly 584 calories, with 8g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), protein (15% of the Daily Value), and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2330mg per serving (101% of the Daily Value).

584 kcal 29% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.5g 15% DV
Total Fat 38.8g 50% DV
Carbs 53.6g 19% DV
Fiber 4.6g 16% DV
Sugar 7.3g 15% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2330mg 100% DV
Potassium 487.3mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 4.3mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.6mcg
Vitamin C 6.4mg 7% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 61.1mg 5% DV
Iron 2.1mg 12% DV
Contains Milk

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 vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth in this recipe, making it suitable for vegetarians. The flavor may vary slightly, so adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain a rich taste.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this vichyssoise dairy-free, substitute the light cream with a plant-based cream alternative, such as coconut cream or cashew cream. Ensure that your broth is also free from animal products to keep the dish fully dairy-free.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Vichyssoise can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to develop. Just be sure to chill it thoroughly before serving. If you need to reheat, do so gently to avoid curdling the cream.

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).

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