GERMAN POTATO SOUP:

#### Instructions:

**Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic**
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

**Step 2: Add the Potatoes and Broth**
1. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir them around for a minute to coat them with the butter and onion mixture.
2. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the thyme and rosemary (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture 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 when pierced with a fork.

**Step 3: Mash the Soup (Optional)**
1. Once the potatoes are soft, you can use a potato masher to mash some of the potatoes in the soup for a thicker, creamier texture. If you prefer a smoother consistency, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup. Alternatively, you can leave the soup chunky if you prefer a rustic texture.

**Step 4: Add Cream and Adjust Seasoning**
1. If you’d like a richer, creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to combine the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

**Step 5: Serve and Garnish**
1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. For added flavor and texture, you can also top with crumbled cooked bacon or crispy bacon bits. If you’re adding sausage, stir it into the soup at this stage to warm it through.

### Tips for the Best German Potato Soup:

– **Choosing Potatoes**: Russet potatoes work well for this soup because they become tender and break down easily, creating a creamy texture. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes, which add a buttery flavor.

– **Vegetarian Version**: To make the soup vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. You can also add more vegetables like carrots or celery for added flavor.

– **Sausage or Bacon**: For a meaty version of the soup, consider adding some sliced bratwurst, kielbasa, or crumbled bacon. These additions add richness and smoky flavor to the soup.

– **Herb Variations**: Experiment with different herbs to customize the flavor of your soup. Fresh parsley, dill, or chives make great alternatives or additions to thyme and rosemary.

– **Freezer-Friendly**: This soup freezes well, so feel free to make a double batch. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to serve.

### How to Serve German Potato Soup:

**German Potato Soup** pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside:

– **Crusty Bread**: A slice of crusty, buttered bread is perfect for dipping into the rich, creamy soup.
– **Salad**: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a great way to balance out the richness of the soup.
– **Pretzels**: For a true German experience, serve the soup with soft, salty pretzels on the side.
– **Pickled Vegetables**: A small dish of pickled cucumbers or sauerkraut can add a lovely tangy contrast to the creamy soup.

### Conclusion:

**German Potato Soup** is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings a taste of traditional German cuisine to your kitchen. With its rich, creamy texture and savory flavors, this soup is perfect for warming up on a cold day or enjoying as a filling meal. It’s simple to make, incredibly customizable, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers.

So, whether you’re a fan of classic German dishes or just looking for a satisfying soup, **German Potato Soup** is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Its deliciously comforting nature makes it a perfect addition to any meal, and it’s sure to be loved by everyone who tries it.