Georgian Potato Soup

Georgian Potato Soup Recipe - Vegetarian Delight

Region / culture: Georgia | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Georgian Potato Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This soup is a traditional Georgian recipe that has been passed down through generations. It is made with a combination of diced potatoes, onions, scallions, apple sauce, vegetable stock, and a variety of spices. The addition of cottage cheese and heavy cream gives this soup a rich and creamy texture that is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

History

Georgian Potato Soup has been a staple in Georgian cuisine for centuries. Potatoes were introduced to Georgia in the 18th century and quickly became a popular ingredient in many dishes. This soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that is often enjoyed during the cold winter months. The combination of potatoes, apples, and spices creates a unique and delicious flavor that is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

6 cups diced potatoes (0.5")
0.5 cup small chopped onions
0.25 cup chopped scallions
1 cup apple sauce
0.25 cup apple juice
3 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock
1.25 cups heavy cream
0.5 cup cottage cheese
0.33 cup raisins
1 minced garlic clove
0.33 cup chopped dried apricots
2.5 tbsp flour
0.25 tsp cumin
2 tsp dry mustard
0.5 tsp white pepper
1 tbsp dried hot pepper flakes
2 tsp salt
1 tsp dried and crushed dill
1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
3 tbsp julienned carrots

How to prepare

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of cream, cottage cheese, and flour.
Beat the mixture until smooth, then add the remaining cream.
You can mix it by hand, with a hand mixer, or in a blender.
Set the mixture aside in the refrigerator.
In a separate bowl, mix all of the spices together and divide them into 2 equal portions.
Place a large, heavy pot on high heat for 3-4 minutes.
Add the vegetables, except for 2 cups of diced potatoes and 1 portion of the spices.
Stir and cook over high heat for 4-6 minutes, making sure to scrape the crusts that form on the bottom of the pot.
Pour in the apple juice, followed by the apple sauce.
Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes, then add the stock and the other portion of spices.
Continue cooking while stirring for 12 minutes.
Remove the mixture from heat and either rice it or puree it in a blender until smooth.
Return the mixture to the pot, add the 2 cups of diced potatoes, and bring it to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, stir well, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
Add more stock if additional liquid is needed.
Blend in the cream mixture and continue cooking, stirring for 3-4 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or beef for a protein boost.
Stir in cooked lentils or chickpeas for added fiber.
Use sweet potatoes or butternut squash instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to dice the potatoes into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Mixing the cream, cottage cheese, and flour together before adding it to the soup helps to prevent lumps from forming.

- Cooking the vegetables over high heat helps to develop a rich flavor and caramelization.

- Pureeing the soup in a blender or using a ricer creates a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adjust the amount of stock based on your desired consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Georgian Potato Soup hot with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to stir the soup frequently to prevent sticking and burning.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste before serving.

- Allow the soup to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese for a lighter option.

- Substitute almond milk for the heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative.

- Use vegetable broth instead of vegetable stock for a different flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Georgian Potato Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Georgian Potato Soup in individual bowls garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil. Add a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Georgian Potato Soup with a crisp white wine or a light beer for a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy flavors of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Georgian Potato Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- 320 calories per serving

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 12g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 6g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15% DV

- Vitamin C: 20% DV

- Calcium: 10% DV

- Iron: 8% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (cream, cottage cheese)

Summary

Georgian Potato Soup is a rich and creamy dish that is high in carbohydrates and fats. It is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Summary

Georgian Potato Soup is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal for the whole family. Enjoy a bowl of Georgian Potato Soup on a cold winter day for a taste of traditional Georgian cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a warm summer day in the bustling streets of Tbilisi, Georgia. I had been wandering through the lively markets, taking in the sights and smells of the vibrant city. As I perused the various stalls, my eyes were drawn to a small, elderly woman selling an array of fresh vegetables. Something about her reminded me of my own grandmother, and I found myself drawn to her stand.

As I approached, the woman greeted me with a warm smile and began to speak to me in a language that I did not understand. I quickly realized that she was speaking in Georgian, a language that I had never heard before. Despite the language barrier, I could sense a kindness and warmth emanating from her, and I felt an instant connection to her.

I gestured towards the vegetables, indicating that I would like to purchase some. The woman nodded and began to gather an assortment of produce, including potatoes, onions, and carrots. As she handed me the vegetables, she began to speak again, this time gesturing towards a nearby pot of simmering soup. I watched as she added the vegetables to the pot, along with some water and a few spices. The aroma that filled the air was intoxicating, and I could not resist asking her what she was making.

To my surprise, the woman began to explain in broken English that she was making Georgian Potato Soup, a traditional dish that had been passed down through generations of her family. She spoke of how the recipe was a closely guarded secret, known only to a select few in her village. As she stirred the pot, she shared stories of her childhood, of times spent in the kitchen with her own grandmother, learning the art of cooking.

I was captivated by her words and by the passion with which she spoke. I could see the love and pride she felt for her culture and her heritage, and I knew that I had to learn more about this recipe. With the help of a translator, I asked the woman if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. At first, she hesitated, reluctant to part with such a cherished tradition. But as she looked into my eyes, she saw a familiar spark of curiosity and determination, and she relented.

Over the next few hours, the woman taught me the intricacies of making Georgian Potato Soup. She showed me how to chop the vegetables just so, how to season the broth with just the right amount of spice, and how to simmer the soup until it reached the perfect consistency. I watched in awe as she worked, her hands moving with a grace and skill that can only come from years of practice and experience.

As the soup cooked, the woman shared more stories with me, tales of her family and their connection to the land. She spoke of the importance of food in Georgian culture, of how meals were not just a means of sustenance but a way of bringing people together, of sharing love and laughter. I listened intently, absorbing every word, feeling as though I was being initiated into a sacred tradition.

Finally, the soup was ready. The woman ladled out a steaming bowlful and handed it to me with a smile. I took a tentative sip, letting the flavors wash over my taste buds. The soup was unlike anything I had ever tasted before - rich and hearty, with a hint of warmth and spice. It was a taste of Georgia, a taste of history and tradition.

As I savored the soup, the woman watched me with a knowing look in her eyes. I could see that she understood the significance of this moment, of the bond that had been forged between us over a simple pot of soup. And as I finished the last spoonful, I knew that I would carry this recipe with me always, a reminder of the connection that transcends language and borders.

So now, whenever I make Georgian Potato Soup, I think back to that warm summer day in Tbilisi, to the kind woman who shared her recipe and her stories with me. I feel her presence in the kitchen with me, guiding my hands and infusing the soup with her love and heritage. And as I serve the soup to my own family and friends, I pass on not just a recipe but a piece of history, a taste of Georgia that will always hold a special place in my heart.