Who knew that the classic dill pickle could be transformed into a soup so packed with flavor, comfort, and a tangy kick? Dill pickle soup might sound a bit unusual at first, but trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked. This creamy, savory, and slightly tart soup is a surprising combination of ingredients that come together to create a hearty meal. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re in the mood for something a little out of the ordinary, dill pickle soup will impress your taste buds in ways you didn’t expect. Whether you’re a dill pickle fanatic or just looking for something new, this recipe will be a delightful treat for your culinary repertoire.
Dill pickle soup is an Eastern European dish, with roots often traced back to Polish and Ukrainian cuisines, where pickles were a staple due to their preservation qualities. It’s easy to see why this soup made its way into the comfort food category-it’s cozy, creamy, and with that distinct tang from the pickles, it’s just enough to shake up your soup routine. And the best part? You don’t need to be a pro to make it! With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can whip up this loaded dill pickle soup that’s rich, flavorful, and truly comforting.
So, if you’re ready to take your taste buds on an exciting adventure, let’s dive into this loaded dill pickle soup recipe. We’ll walk through everything from the ingredients to some insider tips that will make your soup stand out even more.
Loaded Dill Pickle Soup Recipe
This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people, making it a perfect dish for a small family dinner or a cozy meal with friends. The great thing about this recipe is how easy it is to make, yet it delivers on so much flavor! Here’s the breakdown of what you need:
Ingredients Needed
- 2 tablespoons butter: The base for sautéing the veggies and creating that delicious, rich start to the soup.
- 1 large onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A burst of aromatic flavor to complement the pickles.
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced: These provide the body and creaminess to the soup.
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid base for the soup, making it nice and soupy.
- 2 cups dill pickle juice (from your favorite jar of pickles): This is the secret ingredient that gives the soup its signature tang.
- 1½ cups pickles, chopped: The star of the show! Dill pickles chopped into bite-sized pieces will infuse the soup with their sharp, tangy flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: To create a smooth, creamy texture that balances out the tartness of the pickles.
- 1 teaspoon dried dill: For an added depth of pickle flavor that will echo the tanginess.
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder: A subtle, complementary flavor to the pickles that adds just the right amount of sharpness.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, depending on how bold you want the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped (optional): A fresh garnish for added color and a burst of dill flavor to finish it off.
- Bacon bits or crispy bacon (optional): For a crunch that brings both flavor and texture.
Cooking Instructions
Here’s how you can put everything together to make this delightful loaded dill pickle soup:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, stirring constantly so it doesn’t burn. This step will create a solid flavor foundation.
- Cook the Potatoes: Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to coat them with the buttery onion and garlic mixture. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes before adding the broth. Stir everything to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Add the Pickle Juice & Pickles: Now, it’s time to add the pickle juice! Pour in the dill pickle juice and chopped pickles. Bring the soup back to a simmer, letting it cook for another 5 minutes so the pickles can really release their flavor into the broth.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to gently blend the soup, leaving some potato chunks for texture. If you like a chunkier soup, you can skip this step.
- Stir in the Cream and Seasonings: Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, dried dill, mustard powder, and any salt and pepper. Stir well to combine, and let the soup simmer on low heat for 5 more minutes, allowing the cream to thicken the soup and the flavors to meld together.
- Finish with Garnishes: Once your soup has reached a creamy, luscious texture, serve it in bowls and sprinkle fresh dill and crispy bacon (if using) on top for a touch of freshness and crunch.
Ingredient Insights
- Pickle Juice: While the pickles themselves offer a delicious crunch and tang, the pickle juice is the liquid gold in this recipe. It’s what infuses the soup with that signature dill pickle flavor, and using juice from a high-quality jar of pickles (preferably ones with natural ingredients) will enhance the taste.
- Heavy Cream: The cream acts as a balance to the sharpness of the pickles, making the soup rich and velvety. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap the cream for milk or even a plant-based alternative like coconut milk for a twist.
- Potatoes: The potatoes in this soup aren’t just there for texture-they help to absorb the pickle juice, making the soup more hearty and comforting. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe as they break down nicely and thicken the broth.
Expert Tips
- Pickle Variety: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of pickles. Dill pickles are the classic choice, but you could also try using bread-and-butter pickles for a slightly sweeter soup or even spicy pickles if you’re into a little heat.
- Broth Choice: The flavor of your broth will really shape the soup. Homemade broth or a high-quality store-bought variety will provide more depth and flavor than a lower-quality option.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thinner soup, simply add more broth. For a heartier, thicker version, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot.
- Topping Options: The bacon bits are optional, but they definitely bring a wonderful texture and a bit of smokiness that plays really well with the pickles. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for an even richer soup experience.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This version is just as satisfying without the meat.
- Spicy Dill Pickle Soup: Add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup a spicy kick that complements the pickles perfectly.
- Vegan Version: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream, and use vegetable broth for a plant-based version. Make sure to skip the bacon and add in some crispy chickpeas or tempeh for texture.
- Cheesy Pickle Soup: If you love cheese, stir in some shredded cheddar or cream cheese towards the end of cooking for a richer, cheesy version of this soup.
Final Words
Loaded dill pickle soup is a meal that surprises with every bite-tangy, creamy, and utterly comforting. Whether you’re a pickle enthusiast or just someone looking for a unique soup, this recipe hits the spot. It’s a perfect balance of savory, tangy, and creamy, with the added bonus of being super easy to prepare. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable with different ingredients, toppings, and variations.
FAQs
What Is Loaded Dill Pickle Soup?
Loaded dill pickle soup is a creamy, tangy, and savory soup made with dill pickles, potatoes, onions, and often bacon or other toppings. It combines the sharp flavor of dill pickles with a rich and comforting base, similar to a potato or chowder soup.
What Are The Main Ingredients In Loaded Dill Pickle Soup?
The main ingredients in loaded dill pickle soup include dill pickles, potatoes, onions, garlic, chicken or vegetable broth, cream or milk, and seasonings like dill, pepper, and sometimes bacon or sour cream as toppings.
Can I Use Any Type Of Pickles For This Recipe?
For the best flavor, it is recommended to use classic dill pickles or sour pickles, as their tart and tangy profile complements the richness of the soup. Avoid sweet pickles as they will alter the overall taste.
How Do I Make Loaded Dill Pickle Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of loaded dill pickle soup, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth, and replace any meat ingredients, like bacon, with vegetarian-friendly options like smoked tofu or plant-based bacon. You can also add extra vegetables for more flavor.
Can I Make Loaded Dill Pickle Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make loaded dill pickle soup ahead of time. It actually tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently over low heat when ready to serve.
How Can I Thicken Loaded Dill Pickle Soup?
To thicken loaded dill pickle soup, you can mash some of the potatoes in the soup itself to create a creamier texture. Alternatively, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water or use a bit of flour to thicken the broth. Cream or milk can also contribute to a thicker, richer consistency.
What Can I Serve With Loaded Dill Pickle Soup?
Loaded dill pickle soup pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich. For added flavor, top the soup with sour cream, crumbled bacon, or chopped chives.
Can I Freeze Loaded Dill Pickle Soup?
Yes, you can freeze loaded dill pickle soup. To do so, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so slowly to prevent the dairy from separating.
What Are Some Variations Of Loaded Dill Pickle Soup?
Variations of loaded dill pickle soup can include adding shredded cheese for extra richness, using different types of potatoes (such as sweet potatoes for a twist), or incorporating other vegetables like carrots and celery for added texture and flavor. You can also adjust the level of pickle flavor by adding more or fewer pickles based on your preference.
Is Loaded Dill Pickle Soup Spicy?
Traditionally, loaded dill pickle soup is not spicy, but it can be made spicier if desired. You can add some crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to introduce a spicy kick while still maintaining the tangy pickle flavor.