What To Know
- Leftover mashed potatoes are often neglected, but they hold a secret potential to become a delectable and comforting potato soup.
- Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
- With a few simple steps, you can transform leftover mashed potatoes into a delectable and satisfying potato soup.
Leftover mashed potatoes are often neglected, but they hold a secret potential to become a delectable and comforting potato soup. This blog post will guide you through the transformative journey of turning your mashed potatoes into a creamy, flavorful soup.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Leftover mashed potatoes
- Chicken broth or vegetable broth
- Milk or cream
- Butter
- Onion
- Garlic
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Cheese, bacon, or chives
Step 2: Prepare the Aromatics
Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Heat the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Mashed Potatoes
Stir in the mashed potatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Milk
Gradually whisk in the chicken or vegetable broth until the desired consistency is reached. For a thicker soup, use less broth; for a thinner soup, use more. Add milk or cream to your preference for richness.
Step 5: Season to Taste
Season the soup generously with salt and pepper. You can also add herbs such as thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Step 6: Simmer and Puree
Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Use an immersion blender or regular blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
Step 7: Enhance with Toppings
Once the soup is pureed, you can enhance its flavor and texture with various toppings. Consider adding shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, or chopped chives.
Optional Variations:
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Add 1 cup of chopped broccoli florets to the soup before simmering. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese after pureeing.
- Bacon and Corn Chowder: Add 1/2 cup of chopped bacon and 1 cup of canned corn to the soup before simmering.
- Creamy Tomato Soup: Add 1 can of crushed tomatoes to the soup before simmering. Blend until smooth and season with Italian herbs.
Key Points: A Culinary Transformation
With a few simple steps, you can transform leftover mashed potatoes into a delectable and satisfying potato soup. This versatile recipe allows for endless variations, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings. Enjoy the transformative power of this culinary alchemy!
Top Questions Asked
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, but the flavor and texture may be slightly different from using freshly mashed potatoes.
Q: How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
A: Add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the soup and whisk until thickened.
Q: Can I freeze the potato soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze the potato soup for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
