Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage

Enjoy the comfort of a warm bowl of Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage. This dish combines creamy potatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and smoky chicken sausage for a delightful flavor experience. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this hearty soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 40 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: Infused with spices like cumin and paprika, each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile: Serve it as a main dish or a starter; it fits any occasion.
• Comforting: The creamy texture and warmth make it ideal for cold days.
• Family-Friendly: Kid-approved and satisfying for adults too, it’s a hit with everyone.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making this delicious soup, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and holding all ingredients without spilling.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accurate measurements for spices to maintain flavor balance.

Ingredients

Enjoy this warm, hearty dish with creamy potatoes, bell pepper, and smoky chicken sausage. Serve with a side of crusty bread for a bowl of soul-soothing comfort.

For the Base

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 9 ounces Spanish chicken sausage (spicy or mild, sliced)
• 1 green bell pepper (deseeded and chopped)
• 1 yellow onion (finely chopped)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 carrot (peeled and chopped)

For the Seasoning

• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper

For the Soup

• 2 tbsp double concentrated tomato paste
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1.7 pounds waxy potatoes (peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 6 cups chicken broth

For Finishing Touches

• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

How to Make Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients.
1. Peel and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
2. Deseed, cut into strips, and chop the bell pepper.
3. Peel and chop the carrot.
4. Finely chop the onion.
5. Mince the garlic cloves.
6. Chop the parsley.
7. If needed, remove casing from chicken sausage, cut lengthwise in half, then slice.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Sausage

In a large pot over medium-high heat:
1. Heat olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add sliced chicken sausage; cook for about 3 minutes until browned.
3. Add chopped bell pepper; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in onion and garlic; cook for another 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Spices

Next, add in your veggies:
1. Stir in chopped carrot along with salt, black pepper, cumin, oregano, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
2. Cook for another 2 minutes to let flavors meld together.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Now it’s time to make it soupy:
1. Add tomato paste; stir until well combined with other ingredients.
2. Sprinkle flour over mixture; stir until incorporated thoroughly.
3. Add potatoes to pot along with chicken broth; bring to a boil.
4. Once boiling, cover pot, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

To finish off your delicious soup:
1. Stir in heavy cream along with chopped parsley; cook for an additional 3 minutes.
2. Taste your soup and adjust salt as needed before serving.

Serve hot with some crusty bread on the side! Enjoy your comforting bowl of Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage!

How to Serve Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage

Serving Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage is all about enhancing the flavors and creating a comforting meal. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this hearty soup.

Pair it with Crusty Bread

• A thick slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, soaking up all the delicious broth.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro on top before serving brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

Add a Squeeze of Lemon

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can balance the richness of the cream and enhance the overall flavor profile.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light, refreshing salad can complement the warm soup, providing a contrast in texture and temperature.

Include Cheese on the Side

• Offering shredded cheese, like cheddar or queso fresco, allows guests to personalize their bowls for extra creaminess.

Offer Extra Spices

• Provide additional spices like crushed red pepper flakes or black pepper for those who enjoy a little extra heat in their soup.

How to Perfect Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage

Perfecting your Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage involves attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions for an even better experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken sausage will elevate the flavor and texture of your soup.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste and adjust seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs towards the end for optimal flavor balance.
• Blend for Creaminess: For an ultra-creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding back to the pot. This thickens without extra calories.
• Use Leftover Broth: If you have leftover broth from previous meals, use it for added depth in flavor rather than water or store-bought options.
• Cook Slowly: Allowing your soup to simmer longer can enhance flavors significantly. Just ensure potatoes remain tender but not mushy.
• Experiment With Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as celery or spinach for added nutrition and variety in flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage

Pairing side dishes with Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage enhances your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   The buttery, garlicky goodness complements the soup’s flavors while providing a crunchy texture perfect for dipping.
2. Caesar Salad
   A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing counterbalance to the creamy soup, making each bite enjoyable.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients, creating a vibrant plate that pairs beautifully with your warm soup.
4. Cheese Quesadillas
   Easy to make and filled with melted cheese, quesadillas are a fun finger food that goes well alongside your hearty dish.
5. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to savory flavors in the soup while adding a touch of sweetness.
6. Stuffed Peppers
   These colorful veggies can be stuffed with grains or beans for an earthy side that echoes the heartiness of potato soup.
7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
   The classic combo offers melty goodness that pairs perfectly with creamy soups; consider adding herbs for added flavor!
8. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with spices can create an interesting texture contrast alongside your potato-filled soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Ignoring ingredient prep: Failing to prepare your ingredients before cooking can lead to uneven cooking times and a chaotic kitchen. Always chop and measure everything beforehand.
• Overcooking the potatoes: Cooking potatoes for too long can result in mushy soup. Keep an eye on them and aim for tender but firm pieces.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting your soup before serving can lead to bland flavors. Always sample and adjust the seasoning as needed for the best taste.
• Using low-quality broth: The broth is a key flavor component of this soup. Opt for a high-quality chicken broth or homemade version for the richest taste.
• Not letting it rest: Serving immediately after cooking can miss out on blending flavors. Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes can enhance its overall flavor.
• Forgetting garnishes: Garnishes like fresh parsley add brightness and visual appeal. Don’t skip this final step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage that might help you along the way.

Can I customize the vegetables in Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach based on your preference.

What can I use instead of chicken sausage?

You can use turkey sausage or any spicy alternative you prefer while maintaining similar flavor profiles.

How do I ensure my Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage is creamy?

Incorporating heavy cream at the end adds richness. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Substitute chicken sausage with plant-based sausages and use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream.

How should I serve Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Spanish Potato Soup with chicken sausage is not only hearty and comforting but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Give this delicious recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!