There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, creamy bowl of German potato soup. This plant based take on the traditional Kartoffelsuppe is just as rich and satisfying as the classic version, made with simple, wholesome ingredients like potatoes, carrots, celery, and fragrant marjoram. Blended to the perfect consistency, it’s creamy without the need for dairy, making it a deliciously light yet filling meal.
Pair this soup with fresh, crusty bread or gluten free rolls, and top it with slices of vegan sausage or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra burst of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a make ahead meal for the week, or a nostalgic taste of Germany in a plant based way, this vegan Kartoffelsuppe will hit the spot every time!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 stalks celery (or ½ small celery root), diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, chopped
- ½ tsp dried marjoram
- 1 pinch nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups (1000 ml) vegetable broth or water
- 2 whole bay leaves (optional)
- ⅓ cup (80g) dairy free cream (soy, oat, cashew, or canned coconut milk)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Vegan sausage, sliced (optional)
Directions:
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, celery, carrots, potatoes, and spices. Sauté for another minute.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add bay leaves (if using). Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft. Remove bay leaves.
- Transfer half of the soup to another pot and blend until smooth with an immersion blender (or a regular blender, working in batches).
- Pour the blended soup back into the large pot. Stir in dairy free cream and let it simmer for a few more minutes.
- Adjust seasonings to taste. Add red pepper flakes for heat, if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and slices of vegan sausage (if using). Enjoy!
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Vegan German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) – A Hearty and Traditional Comfort Dish
There’s something truly special about a bowl of warm, homemade soup. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or you’re simply craving a nourishing meal, soups always bring a sense of comfort. Among the many traditional soups across Europe, German Potato Soup, or Kartoffelsuppe, stands out for its rich flavors and simple, wholesome ingredients. This vegan version maintains all the heartiness of the original, but without any animal based products, making it a wonderful option for anyone following a plant based diet.
In this article, we’ll dive into the origins of Kartoffelsuppe, what makes this soup so popular in Germany, and why this vegan adaptation is just as delicious as the classic. We’ll also explore some helpful serving suggestions, variations, and storage tips to ensure you get the most out of this dish.
The History and Popularity of German Potato Soup
Kartoffelsuppe is one of the most beloved dishes in Germany, and it has been enjoyed for generations. Historically, potatoes became a staple food in Germany in the 18th century, thanks to King Frederick the Great, who promoted their cultivation to prevent food shortages. Over time, potatoes became a key ingredient in many German dishes, including stews and soups.
Potato soup is often associated with home cooking, family gatherings, and cozy autumn or winter meals. It is particularly common in southern and central Germany, where it’s often made with regional variations depending on family traditions and available ingredients. While the classic version sometimes includes sausage or bacon, this vegan adaptation uses plant based ingredients while keeping all the rich flavors that make this dish so special.
What Makes Vegan Kartoffelsuppe Special?
This vegan German potato soup is not just an ordinary soup; it’s a dish that brings warmth, nutrition, and comfort with every spoonful. The combination of simple, earthy ingredients creates a perfectly balanced and creamy texture without any dairy.
Here’s what makes this soup so special:
1. Naturally Creamy and Hearty
Many people assume that a creamy soup requires dairy, but this is not the case! The potatoes themselves naturally create a thick and velvety texture when blended. A small amount of dairy free cream, such as soy, oat, cashew, or coconut milk, adds a luscious, silky consistency without overpowering the delicate flavors of the vegetables.
2. Nutritious and Wholesome Ingredients
Kartoffelsuppe is a nutrient dense soup that provides essential vitamins and minerals from the vegetables used. Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, while carrots and celery provide additional vitamins A and K. Using vegetable broth as a base further enhances the nutritional profile, making this soup both delicious and good for you.
3. Customizable to Suit Any Preference
One of the best things about this soup is its versatility. You can adjust the texture by blending it completely for a silky smooth soup or leaving it partially chunky for a more rustic feel. You can also add different vegetables like leeks, spinach, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrients. Additionally, those who love spice can enhance the soup with red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
4. A Budget-Friendly and Accessible Dish
This soup is made from everyday pantry staples that are affordable and widely available. Since it mainly consists of potatoes, carrots, celery, onions, and broth, it’s an excellent option for families or individuals looking to prepare a healthy meal on a budget.
Serving Suggestions for the Best Experience
While Kartoffelsuppe is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to enhance the experience:
1. Serve It with Fresh Bread
A warm, crusty loaf of bread is the perfect companion to this creamy soup. Traditional German options like rye bread, sourdough, or pretzels make an excellent pairing, but any type of fresh bread will work. For a gluten free option, try serving it with gluten-free rolls or cornbread.
2. Add Vegan Sausages for a Heartier Meal
Since traditional Kartoffelsuppe is often served with sausages, you can replicate this by adding slices of your favorite vegan sausage. Simply pan fry them before adding them to the soup for an extra layer of texture and smoky flavor.
3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs and Toppings
Fresh parsley, chives, or green onions add a lovely burst of color and flavor to the soup. If you prefer a slightly cheesy taste, sprinkle some nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan cheese on top.
4. Pair It with a Side Salad
For a balanced meal, serve this soup with a light salad featuring fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad contrasts beautifully with the warm and creamy texture of the soup.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Kartoffelsuppe is an excellent meal prep option because it stores well and even tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Here’s how you can store it properly:
1. Refrigeration:
- Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
- When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.
2. Freezing:
- Kartoffelsuppe is freezer-friendly for up to 3 months.
- Let the soup cool completely before pouring it into freezer safe containers.
- When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally.
3. Meal Prepping:
- If you plan to eat the soup throughout the week, divide it into individual portions for easy grab and go meals.
- Store in mason jars or meal prep containers for quick reheating.
Variations to Try
Although the classic version is already delicious, you can experiment with different variations to suit your taste:
1. Green Potato Soup
Add a handful of spinach, kale, or green peas to the soup before blending for extra vitamins and a vibrant green color.
2. Cheesy Vegan Potato Soup
For a cheesy twist, stir in vegan cheese shreds or nutritional yeast to give the soup a richer flavor.
3. Spicy Potato Soup
If you enjoy heat, add cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
4. Rustic Chunky Soup
Instead of blending the soup, leave it completely chunky for a more stew-like consistency.
Conclusion
Vegan German Potato Soup (Kartoffelsuppe) is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying and flavorful dish. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a cold day, a nutritious dish packed with wholesome ingredients, or a budget friendly recipe that’s easy to make, this soup checks all the boxes.
By using plant based ingredients, this version stays true to the heartiness of traditional Kartoffelsuppe while being accessible to vegans, vegetarians, and anyone seeking a healthy and delicious meal. With countless ways to customize and serve it, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.