Fully Loaded Baked Potato Soup

Fully Loaded Baked Potato Soup

  • Prep time: 15
  • Cook time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Yield: 8
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Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, halved, stemmed
  • 2 russet potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable shortening or butter
  • 1 leek, chopped
  • 6 scallions, thinly sliced, white parts separated from green parts
  • 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 chipotle in adobo, finely chopped, plus 1 teaspoon sauce
  • 1 cup roasted cashews
  • 1 quart almond or cashew milk
  • 2 cups stock
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
Nutrition Facts
Serves 8

Description

Title: Beyond the Spud: Unveiling the Superiority of Baked Potato Soup

Introduction: While the classic baked potato has long been a comfort food favorite, there’s a stealthy contender in the culinary arena – Baked Potato Soup. Join me on a flavorful journey as we explore why this creamy, hearty soup might just outshine its tuberous predecessor.

**1. Creamy Bliss in Every Spoonful:

  • Baked Potato Soup boasts a velvety, indulgent texture that permeates every spoonful. Unlike its solid counterpart, the soup envelops your taste buds in a luscious creaminess that transforms the humble potato into a decadent delight.

**2. Flavor Infusion:

  • The soup-making process allows for a more thorough infusion of flavors. As the potatoes simmer in a broth enriched with aromatics, bacon, and seasonings, they absorb and magnify the savory goodness, creating a depth of flavor that goes beyond the confines of a simple baked potato.

**3. Top-Notch Toppings:

  • Baked Potato Soup invites an array of delectable toppings to the party. From shredded cheese and crisp bacon to chives and a dollop of sour cream, these toppings elevate each bite to a symphony of textures and tastes that the standalone baked potato can only dream of.

**4. No More Baked Potato Indecision:

  • Baked potatoes often lead to the dilemma of choosing the perfect toppings. Baked Potato Soup eliminates this predicament by blending all the delicious components seamlessly, ensuring a harmonious flavor profile in every spoonful.

**5. Cold Weather Comfort:

  • While a baked potato may offer warmth, Baked Potato Soup takes it to the next level. Picture yourself cozying up with a steaming bowl on a chilly evening – the warmth, the aroma, and the comfort are unmatched.

**6. Versatility Redefined:

  • Baked Potato Soup is a canvas for culinary creativity. Experiment with different cheese varieties, add a kick of spice with jalapeños, or explore the smoky richness of roasted garlic. The soup’s adaptability allows you to tailor it to your taste preferences.

**7. Soup’s On, Anytime:

  • Unlike the time-consuming process of baking potatoes, Baked Potato Soup is a more convenient option. Craving the comforting essence of a baked potato? Whip up a batch of soup in a fraction of the time, any day, any season.

**8. Leftover Magic:

  • Baked Potato Soup embraces leftovers with open arms. Have extra baked potatoes from last night’s dinner? Transform them into a delightful pot of soup, preventing food waste and elevating your culinary repertoire.

**9. Freeze and Thaw Convenience:

  • Baked Potato Soup freezes exceptionally well. Prepare a big batch, portion it into containers, and freeze for later. When the craving strikes, thaw and reheat for a quick and satisfying meal.

**10. Soul-Satisfying Satisfaction: - There’s something inherently soul-satisfying about a bowl of Baked Potato Soup. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and delightful toppings creates a culinary experience that transcends the simplicity of a traditional baked potato.

Conclusion: Baked Potato Soup emerges as the victor in the battle of spuds, offering a luxurious, flavorful experience that goes beyond the limitations of a standalone baked potato. So, trade your fork for a spoon, dive into a bowl of creamy goodness, and discover why Baked Potato Soup is the true champion in the world of potato-inspired comfort cuisine.

Instructions

  • 1. Preheat oven to 400F.
  • 2. Toss cauliflower and potatoes with vegetable oil and place on foil-lined baking sheet. Place in oven and bake until potatoes are cooked through, about 1 hour.
  • 3. Heat shortening in large pan over medium-low heat. Add leek, celery, scallion whites, and garlic. Saute until softened, about 10 minutes.
  • 4. Add paprika and chipotle with adobo and stir to combine. Stir in cashews then transfer to a large bowl.
  • 5. Transfer cashew mixture to blender with cauliflower, almond milk and half of one peeled potato. Puree until completely smooth. Transfer to a large pot.
  • 6. Press remaining potatoes through ricer or food mill into pot with pureed mixture and mix thoroughly. Add stock to thin to desired consistency.
  • 7. Heat to simmer and season with salt and pepper.
  • 8. Serve topped with steamed broccoli and scallion greens.