Smoked paprika: The secret to perfect potato soup

Potato soup is a classic that needs no introduction. For years, it has been a staple on the tables as a simple, hearty, and easy-to-make dish. Although many of us know the traditional recipe for this soup, few realize that just one additional ingredient can completely change its flavour—the secret lies in aromatic smoked paprika, which gives the potato soup a unique and bold character.

Smoked paprika is a true game-changer, adding depth and aroma to your potato soup. Its slightly sweet yet smoky notes blend perfectly with potatoes, creating an exceptionally harmonious combination.

Why does smoked paprika work so well in potato soup?

• Rich flavour: Smoked paprika adds complexity to the soup's flavour, making it more interesting and stimulating to the senses.
• Deep aroma: Its intense aroma fills the kitchen, creating a delicious atmosphere.
• Natural colourant: Smoked paprika gives the soup a beautiful golden colour.
• Versatility: You can adjust the intensity of the smoked paprika flavour to your liking, adding more or less.

Ingredients:

• 900 mL of vegetable broth,
• 450 grams of potatoes,
• 150 grams of smoked bacon,
• 1 parsnip,
• 1 carrot,
• 2 cloves of garlic,
• 1 onion,
• Salt and pepper to taste,
• 2 tablespoons of 18% sour cream,
• 1 teaspoon of sweet smoked paprika,
• Parsley for serving.

Instructions:

1. Peel and dice the potatoes, carrots, and parsnip. Chop the onion and garlic. Dice the bacon finely.
2. Fry the bacon in a heated pan until crispy. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until translucent.
3. Transfer the sautéed ingredients to a pot. Add the diced vegetables, broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the potatoes are tender.
4. Blend a portion of the soup until smooth. Add it back to the remaining soup to thicken.
5. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add the sour cream and mix thoroughly.
6. Serve the soup hot, topped with fresh parsley.

Potato soup with smoked paprika is a simple way to diversify everyday meals. Thanks to a small modification to the classic recipe, we get a soup with a unique taste and aroma. Try it and see how one teaspoon of smoked paprika can transform the flavour of your favourite soup.