Potato and Cilantro Soup

Warm your soul with a bowl of Potato and Cilantro Soup, a cherished culinary gem from Portugal. This recipe, featuring the vibrant flavors of fresh cilantro, presents a harmonious blend of potatoes and onions in a velvety base. With a touch of aromatic garlic and a drizzle of olive oil, this soup offers both comfort and zest. A bowlful of this nourishing goodness is perfect for any occasion, and the best part is, you can prepare a batch to freeze for up to three months, ensuring a quick and satisfying meal whenever the craving strikes.

Serves: 4–6
Prep: 10–15 min
Cook: 30 min
Freeze: Up to 3 months

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 small bunch of fresh cilantro
• 2 onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 lb (900g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 pints (1.2 liters) chicken stock, vegetable stock, or water
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Cut the stems from the cilantro and tie them in a bundle with string. Chop the leaves finely and reserve.
2. In a pot, heat the olive oil and gently cook the chopped onions and garlic until tender, avoiding browning.
3. Add the cubed potatoes and the bundle of cilantro stems. Stir well, then cover and let the mixture cook over low heat for about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken stock, vegetable stock, or water, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the potatoes are very tender.
5. Remove the bundle of cilantro stems from the pot. Carefully process the soup in a blender until smooth, adding a little more stock or water if the consistency is too thick.
6. Stir in the reserved finely chopped cilantro leaves and reheat the soup gently, taking care not to bring it to a boil.
7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve the Potato and Cilantro Soup immediately, savoring the delightful blend of flavors and comforting warmth.

Garnish your servings with a sprig of fresh cilantro and perhaps a drizzle of olive oil for an added touch of elegance. The Potato and Cilantro Soup is a true celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a hearty and satisfying dish. Whether enjoyed as a starter, a light meal, or a comforting supper, this Portuguese-inspired soup is sure to please your taste buds and warm your heart.