Skip to main content

Hash Brown Potato Soup: Comfort in a Bowl

Hash Brown Potato Soup

While the exact origins of Hash Brown Potato Soup are unclear, hash browns themselves have a long history. The term "hash brown potatoes" was first mentioned by food author Maria Parloa in her 1888 book "Kitchen Companion." They became a popular American breakfast staple in the early 20th century. Combining hash browns with a creamy soup base likely evolved from the traditional potato soups found in many European cuisines, particularly those of Ireland and Germany, where potatoes are a dietary staple.

The idea of using hash browns in soup is a creative twist that leverages the crispy texture and robust flavor of hash browns, melding them into a smooth and comforting soup. This modern interpretation of potato soup is now a beloved dish in many households, appreciated for its simplicity and satisfying taste.

To prepare Hash Brown Potato Soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

Basic Ingredients

- 4 cups frozen hash browns (shredded or diced)

- 1 medium onion, finely chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

- 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or your preferred non-dairy milk)

- 1 cup heavy cream

- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

- 4 tablespoons butter

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)

- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Preparation Time

  • Preparation time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking time: 35 minutes
  • Total time: 50 minutes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

   - If your hash browns are frozen, let them thaw slightly while you prepare the other ingredients.

   - Chop the onion and mince the garlic.

   - Cook and crumble the bacon if using, and slice the green onions for garnish.

2. Cook the Base

   - In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.

   - Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

   - Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

3. Add Hash Browns and Broth

   - Stir in the hash browns and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing them to heat through and begin to soften.

   - Sprinkle the flour over the hash browns and stir to coat evenly.

   - Gradually add the chicken or vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer

   - Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the hash browns are tender.

5. Create the Creamy Base

   - Stir in the milk and heavy cream.

   - Add the shredded cheddar cheese, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy and well combined.

6. Final Touches

   - Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

   - If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

7. Serve

   - Ladle the soup into bowls.

   - Top each serving with crumbled bacon and sliced green onions for garnish.

Nutritional Benefits

Hash Brown Potato Soup offers several nutritional benefits:

  • Potatoes: A good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and dietary fiber.
  • Cheese and Milk: Provide calcium, protein, and essential vitamins like vitamin D.
  • Onions and Garlic: Rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Optional Add-ins: Bacon adds protein and flavor, while green onions contribute additional vitamins and a fresh taste.

Nutritional Considerations

- For a lighter version, consider using low-fat milk and cheese.

- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the bacon.

- For additional nutrients, you can add vegetables like carrots or celery.

Comments

Popular Posts

Cowboy Stew: A Hearty, Hearty Meal for All

Cowboy stew has its roots in the rugged lifestyle of American cowboys during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As cowboys drove cattle across long distances, they needed meals that were easy to prepare, filling, and made with available ingredients. The stew was an ideal solution, combining various types of meat, vegetables, and beans into a single pot. It was traditionally cooked over an open fire, making it a practical choice for life on the trail. The ingredients used in cowboy stew varied depending on what was available, often including beef, pork, beans, and vegetables. This adaptability is one of the reasons why cowboy stew remains popular today. It reflects the resourcefulness and ingenuity of the cowboys who created it, turning simple ingredients into a satisfying and nutritious meal. Manhattan Clam Chowder Ingredients To make a delicious cowboy stew, you will need the following ingredients: - 1 pound ground beef - 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced - 1 large onion, chopped -

Ethiopian Sweet Potato & Peanut Soup: A Culinary Delight

Ethiopian cuisine is steeped in history, influenced by a variety of cultures and traditions. Sweet potatoes and peanuts are both native to the Americas and were introduced to Ethiopia through trade routes and colonialism. Over time, these ingredients became integrated into Ethiopian cuisine, adapted to local tastes and cooking methods. The combination of sweet potatoes and peanuts in a soup reflects Ethiopia's culinary ingenuity, as it combines locally available ingredients with traditional Ethiopian spices and cooking techniques. While the exact origin of Ethiopian Sweet Potato & Peanut Soup is unclear, it has become a beloved dish enjoyed in homes and restaurants across the country and beyond. Recipe of Green Lentil Soup In Ethiopian cuisine, soups are often served as part of a larger meal, accompanied by injera (a sourdough flatbread) and various vegetable and meat dishes. Ethiopian Sweet Potato & Peanut Soup offers a unique blend of flavors and textures, making it a fav

Thanksgiving Sliders

  Thanksgiving sliders are a relatively modern twist on the traditional Thanksgiving meal. While Thanksgiving as a holiday dates back to the early 17th century, when the Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a feast, sliders are a more contemporary culinary innovation. The term "slider" originally referred to small, greasy burgers that could be "slid" down quickly, popularized by White Castle in the early 20th century. However, the concept of mini sandwiches has evolved over the decades. Ham and Cheese Sliders The idea of Thanksgiving sliders likely emerged in the late 20th or early 21st century, driven by the desire to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers in a creative and convenient way. The trend gained popularity through food blogs, social media, and TV cooking shows, where chefs and home cooks showcased how to transform traditional Thanksgiving dishes into fun, bite-sized sandwiches. Thanksgiving sliders have since become a beloved way to enjoy the flavors of the ho

Delightfully Healthy: Broccoli Garlic Soup Recipe and Its Rich History

Broccoli garlic soup traces its roots back to ancient times when garlic was revered for its medicinal properties and broccoli cultivated for its nutritional benefits. Garlic has been used for centuries in various cuisines around the world for its distinct flavor and health benefits. Meanwhile, broccoli, a member of the cabbage family, has been cultivated for over 2000 years, initially in the Mediterranean region and later spreading to other parts of the world. The combination of these two ingredients in soup form likely emerged as a way to create a nourishing and flavorful dish that could be enjoyed during cold winters or as a remedy for various ailments. Over time, as culinary techniques evolved and global trade expanded, broccoli garlic soup became a popular dish in many cultures, each adding its unique twist to the recipe. The Comforting Classic: Split Pea Soup - Recipe, History, and Preparation Guide Ingredients � 1 large head broccoli, chopped (about 5-6 cups) � 1 large onion, cho

Curried Shrimp Rolls

Curried Shrimp Rolls combine the flavors of South Asia with the convenience of a Western-style sandwich. The dish likely evolved from the broader tradition of seafood and curry in regions like India, Thailand, and other parts of Southeast Asia, where shrimp is a common protein. As these flavors made their way to the West, they began to merge with Western culinary formats, such as rolls and sandwiches. The concept of a "roll" sandwich, where the filling is enclosed within a bread roll or bun, has been popular in Western cuisines for centuries. It likely gained popularity in coastal regions of the United States, where fresh seafood was abundant, particularly in areas with a strong influence of Indian or Southeast Asian cuisine. The combination of curry, a blend of spices typically used in Indian cooking, with shrimp in a roll, created a unique fusion dish that is both flavorful and portable. How to Prepare Curried Shrimp Rolls Ingredients : 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and devein