Soups & Stews > Soup & Stew Thickeners > Natural Thickeners > Pureed Vegetables
Creamy Potato Soup Thickener
Enhance your soups and stews with a natural creamy texture by using pureed potatoes. This method adds body and subtle flavor to your dishes, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe details how to prepare and incorporate pureed potatoes as a thickening agent.
Ingredients
- 2 medium Potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold)
- 1/2 cup Water or Broth
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Boiling the Potatoes
Begin by peeling the potatoes. Cut them into evenly sized pieces (about 1-inch cubes). Place the potato pieces in a pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
Pureeing the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly in a colander. Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add 1/2 cup of water or broth to the potatoes. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender (working in batches if necessary) to puree the potatoes until smooth. Add more water or broth if needed to achieve the desired consistency. Season the potato puree with salt and pepper to taste.
Incorporating into Soup or Stew
Take about one cup of your hot soup or stew liquid, and blend it into the potato puree. Then add the puree to your soup or stew, stirring until it dissolves and fully mix. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld and the soup/stew to thicken. Be careful not to let it burn! Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If your soup or stew is not yet thick enough, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch to 2 tablespoons of cold water. Mix well and slowly add to the soup or stew to reach your desired thickness.
Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product
Other Considerations for Nutrition
The nutritional content can vary slightly depending on the type of potato used and whether any butter or milk is added during pureeing. This method is a good source of potassium and vitamin C.
FAQ
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Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a slightly sweeter flavor profile and vibrant color. The cooking and pureeing process will be the same. -
Can I freeze leftover potato puree?
Yes, you can freeze leftover potato puree for future use. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before using. -
How much potato puree should I add to my soup?
Start with a small amount (about 1/2 cup) and gradually add more until you reach the desired consistency. Remember that the soup will thicken slightly as it simmers.