Potato kale soup is a wholesome, vegetable-based soup that combines the earthiness of potatoes with the richness of kale. Often prepared with a creamy broth, it’s a nutritious dish packed with vitamins and fiber. This soup is a great option for vegans or anyone looking for a satisfying yet healthy meal.
Preparing potato kale soup usually takes about 30 minutes. This includes chopping the vegetables, sautéing the onions and garlic, and allowing the soup to simmer until the potatoes are tender. It’s a relatively quick recipe, perfect for busy nights or a comforting weekend meal.
Potato kale soup has been a go-to recipe for many who seek a filling yet nutritious meal. The combination of fresh ingredients and simple seasonings makes it an easy dish to prepare while still delivering great flavor. The creaminess from the coconut milk pairs well with the hearty potatoes, while the kale adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast that rounds out the dish perfectly.
Why You’ll Love Potato Kale Soup
- Delicious and Nutritious: Potato kale soup is a perfect blend of flavors. The potatoes add heartiness, while kale brings in nutrients like vitamins and fiber. This combination makes it a healthy and satisfying meal.
- Quick and Easy to Make: This soup is simple to prepare with minimal ingredients. You don’t need to be a chef to make it! It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your tastes. Add extra veggies or seasoning to make it your own. It’s a flexible dish that allows for creativity while still being delicious.
Ingredient Notes for Potato Kale Soup
- Potatoes: Potatoes are the heart of this soup, adding a creamy texture when cooked. Choose waxy potatoes, like Yukon Golds, for the best results. They hold their shape well and give a smooth, hearty base to the soup.
- Kale: Kale provides a robust, slightly bitter flavor and lots of nutrients. Curly kale works well in soups because it holds up during cooking, maintaining its texture and adding a nice contrast to the potatoes.
- Onion: Onions add a savory depth to the soup. Sautéing them before adding other ingredients brings out their natural sweetness, helping balance the richness of the potatoes and kale.
- Cloves: Cloves add a warm, aromatic touch to the soup. A small amount goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Vegetable Broth or Chicken Broth: This broth forms the base of your soup. Choose vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or chicken broth for a deeper, more savory flavor. Both will provide the necessary liquid and enhance the taste of the soup.
- Coconut Milk: Coconut milk adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness to the soup. It also makes the dish more filling, balancing the earthy flavors of the potatoes and kale while giving it a rich, velvety texture.
- Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the onion and for adding richness to the soup. It contributes healthy fats and a mild, slightly fruity flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Dried Thyme: Thyme is a fragrant herb that pairs well with potatoes and kale. It infuses the soup with a subtle, earthy taste, enhancing the overall aroma of the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors of the soup. Adjust the amount to taste, but be sure to add enough to balance the richness of the coconut milk and the earthiness of the kale.
Potato Kale Soup Variation
You can change the flavor of your potato kale soup by adding different vegetables. For a more robust taste, consider adding carrots, celery, or parsnips. For a heartier version, stir in beans or lentils. Adding a bit of bacon or sausage will give it a smoky flavor.
For a dairy-free version, swap the milk or cream for coconut milk or almond milk. You can also make the soup spicier by including chili peppers or extra garlic. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this soup your own.
How to Serve Potato Kale Soup
Potato kale soup is best served hot, perfect for a chilly evening. You can top it with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh herbs like parsley. For extra crunch, serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Pairing this soup with a light salad or a sandwich makes for a well-rounded meal. It’s filling enough to be a main course yet simple enough for a light lunch. Enjoy it with your favorite drink for a truly satisfying experience.
Storing & Reheating Potato Kale Soup
To store leftover potato kale soup, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
When reheating, it’s best to warm potato kale soup on the stove over low heat. Stir frequently to avoid burning. If frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick, convenient option. Be sure to stir occasionally for even heating.
For a creamier texture, add a splash of milk or broth when reheating. If the soup becomes too thick after being stored, simply add a little extra liquid. This will bring back the smooth consistency of freshly made potato kale soup, making it just as delicious as when it was first cooked.
FAQs About Potato Kale Soup
Can I make potato kale soup ahead of time?
Yes, potato kale soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors often improve after sitting, making it a great meal prep option.
Is potato kale soup healthy?
Potato kale soup is a nutritious meal, packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants from the kale. It is a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin K, making it both hearty and healthy.
Can I use other greens instead of kale in the soup?
Yes, you can substitute kale with other leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard. However, kale holds up better in soups due to its sturdier texture.
How can I make potato kale soup vegan?
To make potato kale soup vegan, simply swap out the broth for vegetable broth and avoid using cream or butter. You can also add plant-based milk like coconut milk for a creamy texture.
Creamy Potato kale Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Cook the potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps them absorb some of the flavors from the onions and garlic.
- Add the broth and seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the thyme (if using), along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Add the kale: Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the chopped kale. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the kale is wilted and tender. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender.
- Stir in the coconut milk: Once everything is cooked, add the coconut milk to the pot. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few more minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Serve and garnish: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or thyme if needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated cheese or fresh parsley on top, and a side of crusty bread.
Notes
