Soup Recipes

Old Fashioned Potato Soup No Cream Recipe : Step By Step Guide

10 min read

Potato soup is one of those classic, soul-soothing dishes that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. While there are countless variations of potato soup, the "Old Fashioned Potato Soup No Cream" recipe stands out as a simple, yet incredibly flavorful dish that doesn’t rely on cream or heavy ingredients to pack a punch. This recipe is a throwback to when soups were made with wholesome, natural ingredients, letting the flavors of the potatoes and other veggies shine.

Not only is it a great comfort food, but it’s also budget-friendly and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a small gathering, this soup hits all the right notes of deliciousness without the added heaviness. So, let’s dive into how you can create this old-fashioned favorite in your kitchen.

Old Fashioned Potato Soup No Cream Recipe

Here’s a recipe that’ll transport you straight to a cozy kitchen from a time when soups were as simple as they were delicious. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a creamy-tasting potato soup, minus the cream, but still full of flavor. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients Needed

For a comforting pot of potato soup without the cream, you’ll need a few pantry staples and fresh produce. Here’s what you’ll want to gather:

  • Russet Potatoes (4-5 medium-sized): These are the backbone of your soup. Russet potatoes have a starchy texture that naturally thickens the broth as they cook.
  • Yellow Onion (1 medium): Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the soup.
  • Celery (2 stalks): A must for that subtle crunch and aromatic flavor.
  • Carrots (2 medium): Provides color, sweetness, and balances the savory elements of the soup.
  • Garlic (2 cloves): A small addition, but garlic really brings a punch of flavor.
  • Chicken or Vegetable Broth (4 cups): The base of the soup; using broth instead of water infuses the soup with a rich, savory taste.
  • Olive Oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the vegetables and starting the soup.
  • Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning. You can always add more later, but it’s important to start with a good foundation.
  • Dried Thyme (1 tsp): A great herb that pairs wonderfully with potatoes and broth.
  • Bay Leaves (2): Bay leaves add a subtle earthiness and depth to the broth.
  • Chives or Parsley (optional, for garnish): For a little fresh finish and color.
  • Butter (optional, 2 tbsp): Adds richness without the cream.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delicious, no-cream potato soup:

  1. Prep The Veggies

    • Peel and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes.
    • Dice the onion, celery, and carrots.
    • Mince the garlic cloves.

  2. Sauté The Vegetables

    • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the diced onions, celery, and carrots. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, or until they begin to soften and the onion turns translucent.
    • Add the garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

  3. Simmer The Soup

    • Add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth.
    • Stir in the thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
    • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
    • Let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

  4. Mash Some Potatoes

    • Once the potatoes are cooked, remove the bay leaves.
    • Use a potato masher to gently mash some of the potatoes in the pot to thicken the soup and give it a creamy texture without any cream. Mash to your preferred consistency.

  5. Finish The Soup

    • If you’d like to add butter for richness, now’s the time to stir it in.
    • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary.

  6. Garnish & Serve

    • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley if desired.
    • Serve hot with crusty bread or a side of your choice.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make this soup stand out:

  • Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are high in starch and absorb the flavors of the broth while breaking down slightly to naturally thicken the soup. They’re perfect for making soups without cream because they create a velvety texture on their own.
  • Chicken or Vegetable Broth: The flavor of the broth is key here. A rich, quality broth makes all the difference in the taste. If you’re using store-bought, go for one that’s low-sodium to control the salt level in your soup.
  • Celery & Carrots: These two vegetables provide a wonderful base for the soup’s flavor, offering both aromatic complexity and a touch of sweetness. Celery adds a crisp texture, while carrots bring color and a slight earthiness.
  • Thyme & Bay Leaves: Herbs like thyme and bay leaves complement the potatoes and broth, creating layers of savory flavors. Thyme is subtle but aromatic, and bay leaves add a delicate, herbal earthiness.
  • Butter: While optional, butter can add a touch of richness to the soup without making it too heavy. It’s an easy way to deepen the flavor profile without relying on cream.

Expert Tips

To take this simple soup recipe to the next level, here are some expert tips you can follow:

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: If you’re doubling the recipe, consider using a larger pot. Overcrowding can make it harder for the vegetables to cook evenly.
  • Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup. This will make the texture even creamier without adding any dairy.
  • Use Homemade Broth: If you have the time and ingredients, homemade chicken or vegetable broth will give the soup an unmatched depth of flavor. You can also add a dash of apple cider vinegar to brighten up the flavor.
  • Reheat the Soup Gently: This soup is excellent as leftovers. When reheating, do so on low heat, and stir occasionally. If it gets too thick, add a splash more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
  • Season in Layers: Taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasoning at every stage. A little extra salt or pepper can really make a difference in enhancing the flavors.

Recipe Variations

While this Old Fashioned Potato Soup is simple and delicious as-is, you can customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs:

  • Add Bacon: For a bit of crunch and smokiness, fry up some bacon and crumble it over the top of the soup before serving. You could even stir some into the soup for extra depth.
  • Vegan Version: If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly version, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip the butter. You can add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without any dairy.
  • Cheese Lovers: While this version is no-cream, if you want to go a little indulgent, try adding shredded cheddar or parmesan to the soup for a creamy finish. Stir it in at the end so it melts beautifully.
  • Spicy Twist: For those who love a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the soup to give it a spicy kick.

Final Words

This old-fashioned potato soup recipe is as humble as it is comforting. It’s one of those dishes that reminds you of the beauty in simplicity. With a few fresh ingredients, a little patience, and some love, you can create a bowl of soup that tastes like home.

It’s the perfect meal for any occasion-whether you’re serving it to your family on a chilly evening or making a big batch for a get-together. And because it’s naturally thickened with potatoes, you can enjoy all the richness of a creamy soup without relying on heavy cream or milk.

FAQs

What Makes Old Fashioned Potato Soup Different From Other Potato Soups?

Old fashioned potato soup typically focuses on simple, wholesome ingredients without the use of cream. Instead, it relies on the natural starch of the potatoes to thicken the soup, giving it a hearty and rustic texture. The recipe is often made with basic ingredients like potatoes, onions, broth, and seasonings.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Potato For The Soup?

Yes, you can use various types of potatoes for old fashioned potato soup. While russet potatoes are the most common choice due to their starchy nature, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also work. They will give the soup a slightly different texture, but still provide a creamy consistency without cream.

How Do I Thicken The Soup Without Using Cream?

To thicken the soup without cream, you can use a few methods: mash a portion of the potatoes in the soup, use a potato masher or immersion blender to break them down, or add a roux (a mixture of butter and flour) to help thicken the broth.

Can I Make Old Fashioned Potato Soup In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Simply combine the potatoes, onions, broth, and seasonings in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Once the potatoes are soft, you can mash some of them to thicken the soup or leave them as is for a chunkier texture.

What Type Of Broth Should I Use For This Soup?

For an old fashioned potato soup, chicken or vegetable broth are the most common options. Chicken broth adds more richness, while vegetable broth gives a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option. You can use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the soup.

What Other Vegetables Can I Add To This Potato Soup Recipe?

You can enhance the flavor of the soup by adding vegetables like carrots, celery, leeks, or garlic. These vegetables contribute additional depth and aroma to the broth without overpowering the potatoes.

How Do I Season Old Fashioned Potato Soup?

Season the soup with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a classic flavor. You can also add garlic powder, onion powder, or a bay leaf for extra depth. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings to your preference.

Can I Make The Soup Ahead Of Time And Store It?

Yes, old fashioned potato soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a little water or broth to loosen it up as the potatoes will continue to absorb liquid over time.

What Should I Serve With Old Fashioned Potato Soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich. You can also top it with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, or fresh herbs like chives for added flavor and texture.

Can I Make This Soup Vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version by using vegetable broth, and substituting the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Ensure that any toppings, like cheese or bacon, are replaced with plant-based options, such as vegan cheese or roasted chickpeas.

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