There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, isn’t there? It wraps around you like a cozy blanket, making even the coldest afternoons feel a bit brighter. One of my absolute favorites is this smoked salmon potato soup, which combines the comforting essence of creamy potatoes with the rich, smoky flavor of salmon. Trust me, it’s a match made in culinary heaven!
I remember one particularly frosty evening when I decided to whip up this soup after a long day. The wind howled outside, but inside my kitchen, the scent of sautéing onions filled the air, instantly making it feel like home. As I blended the soup to a velvety smoothness, I couldn’t help but feel excited about the first spoonful. And oh boy, when I finally sat down with a steaming bowl, it was pure bliss! The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a delightful balance that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this smoked salmon potato soup is sure to become a favorite in your home, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to crafting a delicious smoked salmon potato soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 medium potatoes – peeled and diced. I usually opt for Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for their creamy texture when cooked.
- 1 cup smoked salmon – flaked. Look for high-quality smoked salmon for that rich, savory flavor that makes this soup stand out.
- 1 medium onion – chopped. A sweet onion works wonders in this recipe, adding a lovely depth of flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth – homemade or store-bought will do. This broth serves as the flavorful base of your soup.
- 1 cup heavy cream – for that luscious creaminess. Don’t skimp on this; it really elevates the soup!
- For garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chives – chopped. Fresh chives on top not only add a nice pop of color but also a hint of oniony brightness.
These ingredients come together beautifully, so make sure to gather everything before you start cooking. Trust me, it makes the whole process so much smoother!
How to Prepare Smoked Salmon Potato Soup
Step 1: Cook the Base
Let’s get started on this delicious journey! In a large pot, combine the peeled and diced potatoes, chopped onion, and chicken broth. Bring everything to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You’ll know they’re ready when they break apart easily with a fork. This is the base of your soup, so savor that comforting aroma filling your kitchen!
Step 2: Blend the Soup
Once your potatoes are tender, it’s time to blend! Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender, doing it in batches if needed. You want to blend until the soup is completely smooth and creamy. Tip: If your blender is hot, let it cool for a minute before blending to avoid any splatter! Start blending on low and gradually increase to high for the best consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, feel free to blend just half of the mixture and leave the rest as is!
Step 3: Add Final Ingredients
Now for the magic touch! Return the blended soup to the pot over low heat. Stir in the heavy cream and flaked smoked salmon, mixing gently. Make sure to heat it slowly; you don’t want it to come to a boil, as this can affect that silky creaminess. Just warm it through for about 5 minutes, letting those flavors meld together beautifully. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
It’s time to serve up this delicious soup! Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and for that finishing touch, sprinkle with chopped chives. Not only do they add a lovely pop of color, but they also bring a fresh, oniony brightness that compliments the smoked salmon perfectly. If you want to impress, serve with a slice of crusty bread on the side. Enjoy every warm, comforting spoonful!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This smoked salmon potato soup is a delightful choice for so many reasons. Here are just a few that make it a must-try:
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you can whip up this comforting soup in under an hour!
- Creamy Texture: The addition of heavy cream creates a luscious, velvety soup that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.
- Rich Flavors: The combination of tender potatoes and rich smoked salmon creates a depth of flavor that’s both satisfying and unique.
- Versatile: Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a gathering—everyone will want the recipe!
- Heartwarming Comfort: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of this soup to cozy up with on a chilly day.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this soup has a special place in my heart!
Tips for Success
Getting your smoked salmon potato soup just right is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to help you nail it:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Stick with Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes. They break down nicely and give that creamy texture we all love. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they won’t give you the same smoothness.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chives and high-quality smoked salmon can really elevate the dish. Look for salmon that’s vibrant in color and smells fresh; it makes all the difference!
- Don’t Rush the Blend: When blending, allow steam to escape to avoid a messy explosion. A hot, full blender can be tricky, so blend in batches if needed, and start on a low speed to gradually mix.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth or let the soup simmer a little longer. For a thinner soup, add more broth until you reach your desired texture.
- Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste your soup before serving! A pinch of salt and pepper can enhance the flavors beautifully. You can also experiment with a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty kick!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be on your way to creating a perfectly creamy, flavorful soup that will warm your heart and impress your guests!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a delicious smoked salmon potato soup, it’s good to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition! Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical values per serving:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 20g (Saturated Fat: 10g)
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 25g (Fiber: 3g, Sugar: 2g)
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Potassium: 800mg
- Vitamin A: 500 IU
- Vitamin C: 15mg
- Calcium: 100mg
- Iron: 2mg
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. Always feel free to adjust ingredients according to your dietary needs or preferences!
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions I get about this smoked salmon potato soup that might help you as you whip up your own delicious batch!
- Can I use fresh salmon instead of smoked? Absolutely! If you prefer fresh salmon, you can poach it in the broth before blending. Just make sure to season well to get that smoky flavor.
- What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that it may change the flavor slightly.
- How long can I store leftovers? This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
- Is this soup freezable? Yes, you can freeze this soup! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It’ll be good for about 2-3 months.
- Can I add vegetables to the soup? Definitely! Feel free to toss in some spinach, leeks, or even carrots for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to add them while cooking the potatoes!
These tips should help you create the perfect bowl of soup that’s both comforting and delicious!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your smoked salmon potato soup is super easy! Once it’s cooled down, transfer the soup into airtight containers. It can stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure to give it a good stir before you seal it up to keep everything blended nicely.
If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.
For reheating, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally to avoid any sticking, and if it’s too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup again!
Smoked Salmon Potato Soup
Equipment
- Pot
- Blender
Ingredients
For the Soup
- 4 medium potatoes peeled and diced
- 1 cup smoked salmon flaked
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chives chopped
Instructions
- In a pot, combine potatoes, onion, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender.
- Blend the mixture until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream and smoked salmon. Heat gently.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives.
Notes
If you loved this recipe, you’ll want to explore more of our easy dinner favorites! Check out our collection of easy casserole recipes for more one-pan wonders, browse these easy chicken breast recipes that transform plain chicken into something amazing, or try our crockpot chicken soup recipes for ultimate comfort food. Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest so you can find it again later, and follow us on Pinterest for hundreds more delicious recipes and meal ideas!