If you’re looking for a warm, comforting soup that’s both hearty and simple to make, look no further than sopa de papa. This classic Latin American potato soup is the perfect blend of creamy texture and subtle flavors, making it a favorite for chilly evenings or anytime you crave something soothing and filling.
Made with basic ingredients like potatoes, onions, garlic, and broth, sopa de papa is remarkably easy to prepare yet wonderfully satisfying.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavor and ease. It’s a great way to enjoy potatoes in a new form and can be customized with your favorite herbs and toppings.
Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious sopa de papa from scratch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sopa de papa is a soul-warming dish that’s both delicious and nutritious. The creamy texture from the potatoes combined with a hint of garlic and onions creates a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug.
It’s naturally gluten-free and can easily be adapted for vegetarians by using vegetable broth.
This recipe is also budget-friendly and uses pantry staples you likely already have. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade without spending hours in the kitchen.
Plus, it freezes well, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it later!
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, peeled and diced)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk or cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for a subtle smoky flavor)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
- 1/4 cup grated cheese (queso fresco or cheddar, optional)
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Blender or immersion blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
- Bowl for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes. This helps them cook evenly and blend smoothly later.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil or butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add potatoes and broth: Pour in the diced potatoes and add the broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Season the soup: Add salt, pepper, and ground cumin (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Blend the soup: Using an immersion blender, carefully puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the soup to the pot.
- Add milk or cream: Stir in the milk or cream for a richer texture. Heat the soup gently over low heat, but do not boil once milk is added.
- Final touches: Remove from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and sprinkle with grated cheese if desired.
- Serve warm: Enjoy your sopa de papa with fresh bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk or cream with coconut milk or leave it out entirely.
Adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder can give the soup a wonderful smoky depth.
If you prefer a chunkier soup, reserve half of the cooked potatoes before blending and add them back in after pureeing for texture contrast.
For a more filling dish, add cooked bacon bits or sautéed chorizo on top as a garnish. You can also toss in some cooked corn kernels or diced carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 30 g |
Protein | 4 g |
Fat | 5 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Sodium | 600 mg (varies with broth and added salt) |
Serving Suggestions
Sopa de papa is wonderfully versatile when it comes to accompaniments. Serve it with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
A side of fresh green salad or roasted vegetables complements the soup’s creamy texture perfectly.
For a heartier meal, pair the soup with grilled chicken or fish. It also works beautifully alongside Mexican dishes like tacos or enchiladas to balance out spicier flavors.
Conclusion
Sopa de papa is truly a comforting classic that deserves a spot in your recipe collection. Its rich, creamy texture and simple ingredients make it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just want a cozy bowl for yourself, this recipe delivers flavor and satisfaction without complicated steps.
With endless opportunities to customize with herbs, spices, and toppings, sopa de papa can be your go-to soup recipe all year round. Try it today and experience the warmth and deliciousness that this humble potato soup brings to your table.
📖 Recipe Card: Sopa de Papa
Description: A comforting Mexican potato soup made with simple ingredients and a creamy texture. Perfect for a warm, hearty meal.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add diced potatoes and broth, bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until creamy.
- Stir in butter and milk, cook for 5 more minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with shredded cheese and cilantro before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 6 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 30 g
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