Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup or Broccoli Soup

Cream of Potato Soup and Broccoli Soup Recipe from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 6

Introduction

Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup or Broccoli Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe has been passed down through generations and is sure to warm your soul.

History

This recipe has been a family favorite for years, with Grandma making it for special occasions and family gatherings. The creamy texture and rich flavors make it a standout dish that everyone loves.

Ingredients

2 (31 oz (879 g)) cans of College Inn chicken broth
6 medium potatoes, cubed
4 stalks of celery, diced
4 medium carrots, diced
0.5 cup of cubed ham (optional)
0.25 lb (113 g) of deli bacon, smoked
1 medium spanish onion, diced
1 qt (946 ml) of heavy cream
4 tbsp of butter
0.25-0.5 cup of cornstarch
12 oz (340 g) of cheddar cheese (optional)
If making cream of broccoli soup:
2 heads of broccoli, chopped, peel stems of skins and slice (skins are tough and bitter)

How to prepare

Empty cans of chicken broth into a pot.
Add cubed potatoes and bring to a boil.
While potatoes are starting to cook, pan fry bacon until crisp and add bacon grease to the chicken and potato broth.
Crumble bacon and add it to the broth.
Add diced ham to the broth (optional).
In a saucepan, melt butter and add diced onion, celery, and carrots.
Pan fry until soft.
When potatoes are done, add the celery, carrot, and onion mixture with butter to the broth.
Reduce heat to medium and add about 0.25 to 0.5 qt of heavy cream.
Be careful not to have the soup at a heavy boil or the cream will curdle.
Add enough cream to make the soup look creamy throughout.
Add cheese (optional).
Mix corn starch with very cold water and add it to the soup.
Continue medium boil until the soup thickens.
If it isn't thick enough, repeat corn starch and add slowly.
Remove from heat and enjoy.
The soup will thicken when it gets cold.
You can add milk or water to thin it out.

Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the potatoes until they are tender but not mushy.

- Adding bacon grease to the broth adds a delicious smoky flavor.

- Adding cornstarch slowly will help thicken the soup without clumping.

- Be careful not to boil the soup too vigorously once the cream is added to prevent curdling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup or Broccoli Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are soft and tender before adding the cream.

- Stir the soup frequently to prevent sticking and burning on the bottom of the pot.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the soup.

- Use turkey bacon or vegan bacon as a substitute for traditional bacon.

Make Ahead Tips

Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup or Broccoli Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with fresh herbs, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup or Broccoli Soup with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup or Broccoli Soup contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup or Broccoli Soup contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup or Broccoli Soup contains approximately 25 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup or Broccoli Soup contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This soup is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy and pork products. It may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or pork allergies.

Summary

Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup or Broccoli Soup is a rich and creamy dish that is high in calories and fats. It is a comforting meal that is best enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup or Broccoli Soup is a classic recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. With its rich and creamy texture, hearty ingredients, and comforting flavors, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup and savor the memories of Grandma's kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a joyful one. It was a chilly autumn day, and I found myself craving something warm and comforting for dinner. As I rummaged through my pantry and fridge, I stumbled upon a bag of potatoes and a head of broccoli. Suddenly, inspiration struck, and I knew exactly what I wanted to make - Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup.

I had watched my own grandmother make this soup countless times when I was a little girl. She would stand in the kitchen, humming a tune as she peeled and diced the potatoes, chopped the broccoli, and simmered everything together in a pot until it was thick and creamy.

As I gathered the ingredients and started cooking, I could almost hear her voice guiding me through the recipe. "Don't forget the secret ingredient," she would say with a twinkle in her eye. "A pinch of nutmeg adds just the right touch of warmth and flavor."

I followed her instructions carefully, adding the potatoes, broccoli, onions, and garlic to a pot of simmering chicken broth. As the soup bubbled away on the stove, filling the kitchen with its rich, savory aroma, I couldn't help but feel a sense of nostalgia and comfort wash over me.

When the soup was finally ready, I ladled it into a bowl and took a hesitant sip. The flavors were perfect - creamy and smooth, with a hint of sweetness from the nutmeg. It was like a warm hug in a bowl, just like Grandma used to make.

From that day on, Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup became a staple in my own kitchen. I shared the recipe with friends and family, and it quickly became a favorite among all who tried it. There's something special about a recipe that has been passed down through generations, each cook adding their own unique touch to it.

Over the years, I've made a few tweaks to the original recipe - a splash of cream for extra richness, a handful of cheddar cheese for added flavor. But the heart of the dish remains the same, a simple and comforting bowl of soup that warms the soul on even the coldest of days.

As I sit down to enjoy a bowl of Grandma's Cream of Potato Soup, I can't help but feel grateful for the memories and traditions that have been passed down to me. Cooking has always been a way for me to connect with my past, to honor those who came before me and to pass on a piece of myself to future generations.

So here's to Grandma, and to all the grandmothers out there who have shared their love and their recipes with us. May we never forget the joy of discovering a new dish, the comfort of a familiar flavor, and the warmth of a homemade meal shared with loved ones.