What makes this Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup recipe the “Absolutely Ultimate?” The answer, as it is for so many unforgettable recipes, is bacon! With a bacon base, this rich soup is sure to make its way to the favorite list in your household.
Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup
With great excitement, I embarked on the journey of making the “Absolutely Ultimate Potato Soup.” The promise of a rich and flavorful soup had my taste buds tingling in anticipation. The secret ingredient that sets this recipe apart? Bacon!
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
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried tarragon
3 teaspoons chopped fresh cilantro
salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until done. Remove bacon from pan, and set aside. Drain off all but 1/4 cup of the bacon grease.
- Cook celery and onion in reserved bacon drippings until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic, and continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes. Add cubed potatoes, and toss to coat. Saute for 3 to 4 minutes. Return bacon to the pan, and add enough chicken stock to just cover the potatoes. Cover, and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 to 2 minutes. Whisk in the heavy cream, tarragon, and cilantro. Bring the cream mixture to a boil, and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Stir the cream mixture into the potato mixture. Puree about 1/2 the soup, and return to the pan. Adjust seasonings to taste.
As I gathered the ingredients and started cooking, the aroma of sizzling bacon filled my kitchen. The smoky scent was irresistible, and I knew it would infuse the soup with a depth of flavor that would make it truly unforgettable.
As the soup simmered on the stove, the flavors melded together, creating a velvety and comforting dish. The potatoes cooked to perfection, becoming tender and creamy, while the bacon added a salty and savory element that elevated the entire soup.
The first spoonful was pure bliss. The richness of the soup combined with the smoky notes of bacon danced on my palate, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors. It was a soup that warmed both my body and soul, instantly earning its place as a favorite in my household.