When choosing what to serve with your potato soup, consider the flavors and textures that will best complement it. You’ll want something that adds a bit of contrast while still allowing the warm, soothing essence of the soup to shine through. From simple breads and salads to more elaborate pairings, there are countless options to delight your taste buds and complete your meal.
Protein Partners
Chicken Configurations
When it comes to complementing potato soup, you can’t go wrong with chicken. Here are a few ideas to add a little pizzazz to your meal:
- Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinate your chicken breast in lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and your choice of herbs. Grill or bake it to perfection and serve alongside your potato soup.
- Shredded Chicken Tacos: Give your meal a Tex-Mex twist by preparing shredded chicken tacos. Use a slow cooker to cook your chicken with taco seasoning, and serve in a warm tortilla with your choice of toppings.
Meaty Mix-ins
If you’re looking to add some meaty goodness to your potato soup, here are a few options to consider:
- Bacon Bits: Crispy and delicious, bacon bits make for a great topping. Fry up some bacon, crumble it into pieces, and sprinkle it on top of your potato soup for extra flavor.
- Sausage Crumbles: Brown some sausage in a skillet, then crumble it and add to your soup for a comforting, hearty touch.
Vegetarian Varieties
Don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about our vegetarian friends!
- Chickpea Salad: In a bowl, combine chickpeas, diced red onion, chopped cucumber, crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, olive oil, and your favorite herbs.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Hollow out a bell pepper and stuff it with a mixture of cooked quinoa, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Bake until the pepper is tender and serve as a healthy side to your potato soup.
Veggie Companions
Green Garnishes
Fresh, vibrant green herbs will introduce new flavors and textures to your soup. Here are a few recommendations:
- Parsley: It’s a classic choice that adds a fresh touch and a bit of color to your potato soup. You can chop it finely or use whole leaves as a garnish.
- Chives: For a mild onion flavor that complements the potatoes, sprinkle some finely chopped chives on top.
- Cilantro: If you enjoy a bold, zesty taste, cilantro offers a more adventurous option. Use it sparingly to avoid overpowering the soup.
Root Vegetable Relishes
Adding other root vegetables can elevate a simple potato soup to a more hearty, nutritious, and flavorful meal. Here are a few examples:
| Root Vegetable | Preparation | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Carrots | Diced or grated | Adds natural sweetness and a pop of color. |
| Parsnips | Diced, boiled, or roasted | Offers a distinct earthy flavor and additional depth. |
| Turnips | Cubed or thinly sliced | Brings a mildly peppery and tangy taste to the mix. |
Pair your potato soup with one (or more) of these root veggies for a satisfying and well-rounded meal full of interesting flavors and textures. Just make sure you cook them properly before incorporating them into your soup.
Bread Baskets
Toasty Treats
When enjoying a delicious bowl of potato soup, you’ll want to have some toasty treats on the side to enhance the flavors. Toasted, buttered slices of sourdough or multigrain bread are excellent options.
Bountiful Baguettes
A classic choice to serve with potato soup is a fresh baguette or rustic country loaf. Crusty breads are perfect for soaking up the flavors of your soup.
Cheese Choices
Gouda Goodies
When it comes to pairing cheese with potato soup, you can’t go wrong with Gouda. Try a few of these Gouda options:
- Aged Gouda: As Gouda ages, its flavor intensifies and becomes slightly tangy.
- Smoked Gouda: Infused with a smoky, woodsy essence, smoked Gouda will give your soup an interesting depth of flavor.
Cheddar Choices
Cheddar is another classic choice to pair with potato soup. Consider some of the following cheddar options:
- Mild Cheddar: If you prefer a milder cheese, opt for a young cheddar. It will melt easily and provide a subtle contrast in flavor.
- Sharp Cheddar: For a more pronounced tang, choose a sharp or even extra sharp cheddar.
- White Cheddar: White cheddar has a crumbly texture and tends to be more earthy and pungent.
Herbs and Spices
Hearty Herbs
When it comes to enhancing the flavor of your potato soup, adding hearty herbs can make a world of difference. Some popular hearty herbs to consider include:
- Rosemary: This fragrant herb pairs well with potatoes, giving your soup a rich, earthy flavor. Add a sprig or two while your soup simmers to impart its essence.
- Thyme: Another aromatic herb, thyme imparts a subtle, minty taste to your potato soup. A teaspoon of fresh or dried thyme will suffice.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, refreshing flavor to your potato soup. Chop a small handful and stir it into your soup just before serving.
Sparkling Spices
Adding some sparkling spices to your potato soup can transform it into an exciting and flavorful dish. Here are some spices to consider incorporating into your potato soup:
- Paprika: Sprinkle a teaspoon of smoked paprika into your soup to lend a sweet, smoky flavor and a touch of color.
- Cayenne Pepper: If you prefer a bit of heat in your potato soup, a pinch of cayenne pepper will do the trick. Adjust the quantity according to your taste preference.
- Nutmeg: A small grating of fresh nutmeg or a pinch of ground nutmeg adds a warm, fragrant undertone to your soup, creating a cozy dining experience.
FAQs
Which crackers complement potato soup?
Simple crackers such as saltines or oyster crackers can be a great choice as they add a bit of crunch without overpowering the flavors of the soup. Alternatively, you could opt for whole wheat or multigrain crackers to provide added texture and a slightly nutty taste.
What types of bread go with potato soup?
A warm, crusty loaf of French or sourdough bread is a traditional go-to for dipping in potato soup, as it absorbs the flavors nicely. If you prefer a softer choice, consider a slice of buttered white bread or dinner rolls.
Does cornbread suit potato soup?
Yes, cornbread can be a tasty choice to serve with potato soup! The mild sweetness and crumbly texture of cornbread complement the creamy richness of the soup. You can enjoy it on its own or crumble it into your soup for added texture.
What side dishes go well with soups?
When thinking about side dishes to pair with your potato soup, consider options like a fresh mixed greens salad or a small serving of roasted vegetables. Other options can include a tangy coleslaw or a plate of crudités with your favorite dipping sauce.
What dessert can follow a potato soup meal?
After enjoying a filling potato soup meal, you might want a lighter dessert to end your meal on a sweet note. Consider a fruit-based dessert such as a fruit salad or a fruit tart. If you prefer something a bit more indulgent, a slice of light and airy sponge cake or a scoop of tangy sorbet can be an excellent option.