This Creamy Spanish Potato Soup is the epitome of comfort food, bringing together the warmth of Yukon Gold potatoes, the smokiness of paprika, and the richness of shredded cheddar cheese. The addition of tender pork carnitas elevates the dish, making it a complete meal in a bowl that is perfect for chilly evenings. What makes this soup stand out is its blend of smooth, creamy textures and the spicy kick from the cumin and paprika. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare, with a depth of flavor that makes it feel like you’ve spent all day in the kitchen.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 pound pork carnitas (or use any cooked shredded pork)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, and oregano, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Stir in the sour cream and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Add the pork carnitas, season with salt and pepper, and heat through for another 5 minutes.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Origins and Inspiration
The roots of this Spanish Potato Soup are steeped in the traditions of Spanish cooking, where hearty soups and stews play an essential role in everyday meals. Potatoes, a staple in many Spanish dishes, lend themselves beautifully to the creamy texture of the soup, and the spices used—particularly cumin and paprika—are signature flavors in Spanish cuisine. Paprika, especially, is a cornerstone of Spanish cooking, derived from dried peppers that are ground to create a smoky, earthy spice that adds both color and flavor to the dish.
Traditionally, Spanish soups vary depending on the region. In the northern parts of Spain, such as Galicia, hearty stews with potatoes, cabbage, and meat are common. In southern regions like Andalusia, soups tend to be lighter but still packed with vibrant flavors. This particular Spanish Potato Soup takes inspiration from several regions, marrying the creamy, rich texture of northern Spanish soups with the bright, spicy notes commonly found in southern Spanish dishes.
What Makes This Soup Special
This soup stands out not only because of its rich, creamy consistency but also due to the depth of flavor that is developed with just a handful of ingredients. The Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this dish because of their buttery texture, which breaks down beautifully in the broth to create a naturally creamy base without the need for heavy cream. Combined with the savory punch of cheddar cheese and the tangy sour cream, the soup achieves a velvety texture that feels indulgent without being too heavy.
The spices in this soup are another element that sets it apart. Cumin and paprika are widely used in Spanish cooking, and in this soup, they serve dual purposes. Cumin brings an earthy warmth, while paprika—whether smoked or sweet—adds a slightly sweet yet smoky flavor. These spices, paired with the sautéed onions, garlic, and red bell pepper, create a flavorful base for the soup, infusing the broth with layers of complexity.
One of the key highlights of this recipe is the addition of pork carnitas. Traditionally used in Mexican cuisine, carnitas are slow-cooked, shredded pork that is tender and full of flavor. Incorporating carnitas into this Spanish Potato Soup adds a unique twist, providing a meaty, savory component that complements the creamy potatoes and bold spices. The carnitas also make this soup a complete meal, satisfying enough to serve on its own.
Texture and Flavor Profile
The Creamy Spanish Potato Soup hits all the right notes in terms of texture and flavor. Each spoonful offers a combination of creamy, soft potatoes, melted cheese, and tender bites of pork. The potatoes, once blended, provide a rich and thick base that’s perfectly smooth. However, if you prefer a bit more texture, you can choose to leave some of the potatoes chunky, creating a more rustic feel to the soup.
The flavor of this dish is deeply savory, thanks to the combination of spices, garlic, and onions. The cumin and paprika work in harmony to give the soup a warm, slightly smoky flavor that is characteristic of many traditional Spanish dishes. The red bell pepper adds a hint of sweetness that balances out the smokiness of the paprika, while the sour cream brings a subtle tang that cuts through the richness of the cheese and pork. Fresh cilantro, added as a garnish, gives the soup a pop of freshness that brightens the overall flavor.
Customization and Variations
One of the great things about this Spanish Potato Soup is its versatility. While the base recipe is delicious on its own, it can be easily customized to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For instance, if you prefer a vegetarian version of the soup, simply omit the pork carnitas and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The soup will still be hearty and flavorful, thanks to the spices and creamy potatoes.
For a vegan version, you can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative and use a plant-based cheese or simply skip the cheese altogether. The creamy texture of the potatoes provides enough richness on its own, and you can enhance the flavor with additional herbs or spices, such as smoked paprika for a bolder taste.
If you enjoy a bit more heat in your food, feel free to add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the soup. The gentle spice of cumin and paprika can be easily amped up for those who like a spicier kick in their meals.
Additionally, this soup is an excellent canvas for experimenting with other toppings. Aside from fresh cilantro, you can add a squeeze of lime juice for a zesty finish, or top each bowl with crispy tortilla strips or toasted croutons for added texture. A sprinkle of cotija cheese would also be a delicious garnish that adds a salty bite to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Spanish Potato Soup is a meal in itself, but it can be served with a variety of sides to round out the dining experience. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette would complement the richness of the soup and provide a fresh contrast to the creamy texture. For a heartier meal, consider serving the soup with warm crusty bread or homemade cornbread, which can be used to soak up every last bit of the delicious broth.
If you’re looking for a drink pairing, a crisp white wine like a Spanish Albariño or a light red like Tempranillo would work well with the flavors of the soup. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime would provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Conclusion:
Creamy Spanish Potato Soup with Carnitas is a comforting, hearty dish that brings the essence of Spanish cuisine to your table. With its combination of creamy Yukon Gold potatoes, savory spices, melted cheese, and tender pork carnitas, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings for a flavorful, nourishing meal. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy dinner for your family or impressing guests with a delicious starter, this soup is versatile enough to be enjoyed in a variety of settings.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. While the basic ingredients create a rich and satisfying soup, there are countless ways to customize it to your taste. Whether you choose to make it vegetarian, add more heat, or play with different garnishes, this Spanish Potato Soup will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Its bold flavors and comforting texture make it a perfect choice for cooler months, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.