Step by Step guide: how to make potato soup in pressure cooker
Potato soup is a comforting dish that warms you up on chilly days. Making it in a pressure cooker not only saves time but also enhances the flavors.
Follow this easy step-by-step guide to whip up a delicious potato soup in no time!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking instructions, gather these ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized potatoes (russet or Yukon gold)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup of milk or cream (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, bacon bits, chopped green onions, sour cream
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by prepping your ingredients to make the cooking process smoother.
- Example: Peel and dice the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Using the sauté function on your pressure cooker (or stovetop if using a traditional one), heat the butter or olive oil.
- Example: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the heated oil. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
Step 3: Add the Potatoes and Broth
Once the onions and garlic are fragrant, it’s time to add the potatoes and broth.
- Example: Pour in 4 cups of broth and add the diced potatoes. Stir everything together to combine.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Now, add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of your potato soup.
- Example: Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. You can adjust these quantities based on your taste preferences.
Step 5: Pressure Cook the Soup
Seal the lid of your pressure cooker and set it to high pressure. Cook for 10 minutes.
- Example: If you’re using an electric pressure cooker, select the “Soup” or “Manual” mode and set the timer to 10 minutes.
Step 6: Release the Pressure
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure. You can do a quick release by turning the valve or let it naturally release for a few minutes before opening the lid.
- Example: Use a long utensil to turn the pressure release valve away from your face to avoid steam burns.
Step 7: Blend the Soup (Optional)
If you prefer a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to purée the soup right in the pot. If you like chunkier soup, you can skip this step.
- Example: Blend for about 20-30 seconds until smooth, or blend just a portion for a mixed texture.
Step 8: Add Milk or Cream
To make your potato soup richer and creamier, stir in the milk or cream.
- Example: Add 1 cup of milk and mix well. Heat through for another minute or two without pressure.
Step 9: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, taste your soup and add more seasoning if necessary.
- Example: If it’s lacking flavor, add an extra pinch of salt or pepper, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder for added taste.
Step 10: Serve Your Soup
Ladle the soup into bowls and add your favorite toppings.
- Example: Top each bowl with shredded cheese, chopped bacon bits, and green onions for extra flavor.
In this article, we will guide you through the essential steps of making delicious potato soup using a pressure cooker.
From ingredient selection to tips for storing leftovers, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to master this comforting dish in no time.
Types of Potatoes for Soup
When crafting the perfect potato soup, the choice of potato is paramount.
High-starch potatoes like Russet potatoes are often favored for their ability to break down easily, lending a thick and creamy texture to soup recipes.
These potatoes have a milder flavor, which is ideal for those seeking a subtler taste profile in their hearty soup.
On the other hand, Yukon gold potatoes are known for their creamy and moist consistency, along with a rich, buttery flavor that can enhance the overall taste of a potato soup.
Although Yukon golds are not as starchy as russets, they still contribute a lovely thickness to the soup, making them a popular choice for a less dense but equally satisfying dish.
Choosing between Yukon gold and Russet potatoes depends on the desired thickness and richness of the potato soup.
Whether you opt for the higher starch content and thicker result of Russet potatoes or the buttery and less thick consistency of Yukon gold, both are excellent options for a delectable soup experience.
| Potato Type | Texture | Flavor | Soup Consistency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Russet | Thick, creamy | Mild | Rich, thick |
| Yukon Gold | Less thick | Buttery, rich | Creamy, less dense |
In essence, your potato choice sets the stage for the soup’s final texture and flavor, making it an essential step in the recipe.
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Potato Soup
When crafting a luxurious creamy potato soup, begin with foundational produce like Russet potatoes, known for their starchy quality and ability to create a velvety consistency.
Incorporate yellow onion and garlic for aromatic depth, seasoning with salt to enhance all the flavors.
The soup’s liquid base is crucial, and low-sodium chicken broth is a popular choice for its subtlety, allowing the potato’s character to shine.
For the soup’s hallmark creamy texture, evaporated milk or heavy cream is indispensable.
To further enrich the taste and add nutritional value, add chopped carrots and celery.
These vegetables contribute to the soup’s hearty and wholesome profile.
Herbs play a vital role in layering flavors; dried parsley and thyme offer earthy notes that complement the soup’s base.
Lastly, cornstarch serves as a thickener, perfecting the soup’s consistency without sacrificing its creamy indulgence.
By carefully combining these elements, one achieves a balanced and satisfying creamy potato soup.
Here is a concise list of the essential ingredients for a classic creamy potato soup:
- Russet potatoes
- Yellow onion
- Garlic
- Salt
- Low-sodium chicken broth
- Evaporated milk or heavy cream
- Carrots
- Celery
- Dried parsley
- Dried thyme
- Cornstarch
Preparing Your Pressure Cooker
Preparing your pressure cooker for a sumptuous pot of potato soup requires attention to detail to ensure both safety and tastiness.
Start by familiarizing yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions for proper sealing of the lid. It is crucial for the pressure to build correctly within the cooker.
Before beginning the cooking process, ensure all ingredients, particularly your Russet potatoes, are washed, peeled, and chopped uniformly.
This helps in even cooking. The pressure cooker will take around 20 minutes to pressurize before cooking commences, so factor this into your prep time.
When the cooking is complete, it’s advisable to use a gradual quick release method to alleviate pressure; this avoids any potential sputtering.
To do this, slowly open the valve as instructed by your cooker’s manual.
Remember to deactivate the sauté function before securing the cover, as this transitions the device from sautéing to pressure cooking mode.
By carefully following these steps, you’re setting the stage for a delightful, creamy potato soup that serves as a hearty soup base for your favorite toppings like green onions, sour cream, and sharp cheddar cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Embarking on your journey to create a creamy and hearty potato soup in a pressure cooker begins with some foundational steps.
Below you’ll find detailed instructions that will guide you through washing and peeling Russet potatoes, dicing them along with other vegetables, adding ingredients to your pressure cooker, establishing the proper cooker settings, and understanding the nuances of cooking time and pressure release methods.
Equipped with these guidelines, you’re well on your way to crafting a delicious homemade soup that is perfect for any occasion.
Washing and Peeling Potatoes
When it comes to preparing potatoes for your soup, cleanliness is paramount. Begin by thoroughly washing the potatoes with a vegetable brush under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
While peeling is a common step for many potato soup recipes, it is not always necessary. The skins of potatoes, particularly red, gold, or white varieties, are nutritious and full of fiber, and can be left intact.
However, the thicker skins of Russet potatoes may require peeling for a smoother soup texture.
Once cleaned (and peeled if necessary), the potatoes should be cut into bite-sized chunks, keeping in mind that the size doesn’t need to be perfect for the pressure cooker.
Dicing Potatoes and Other Vegetables
After cleaning, proceed to dice your potatoes into roughly 1.5 to 2-inch cubes.
This size is ideal to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their structure in the soup.
Beyond potatoes, consider enhancing your soup with additional vegetables like carrots and celery, both of which can be scrubbed clean and diced to a similar size as the potatoes.
These additions will not only add nutritional value but also increase the depth of flavor.
If you aim for a specific soup texture, whether chunky or smooth, remember that tools such as a potato masher or an immersion blender will be your allies later in the cooking process.
Adding Ingredients to the Cooker
Now it’s time to bring together all your prepared ingredients into the pressure cooker.
Place your diced potatoes in the pot, followed by cups of chicken broth, which will act as the soup’s base.
Add your choice of garlic – either minced or as a powder – and other spices you’d like to infuse your soup with.
If you seek thickness in your soup, hold off on the cornstarch and cream mixture until after the initial cooking is complete.
Feel free to include extras like bacon or your favorite cheeses for additional taste, and remember to adjust salt and black pepper according to your preference once everything is cooked.
Setting the Pressure Cooker
Before commencing the cooking process, ensure the pressure cooker lid is securely locked in place and the valve is set to the sealing position.
Depending on your model, pressurization may take approximately 20 minutes; this allows the cooker to build enough pressure before it starts counting down the actual cooking time.
If your recipe calls for sautéing to soften ingredients such as onions, use the sauté function before sealing the lid to lock in flavors.
Cooking Time and Release Method
Typically, the cooking time in an Instant Pot or other electric pressure cookers for potato soup is between 3 to 4 minutes on a high-pressure setting.
After the timer beeps, opt for the gradual quick release method to prevent any sputtering of hot liquid.
If your preference leans toward a natural release, you could allow the pressure to dissipate naturally for about 10 additional minutes after cooking.
This not only ensures safety but helps the soup to continue thickening within the pot.
Once the pressure is fully released, feel free to stir in the milk and cornstarch mixture to reach the coveted creamy consistency, and if necessary, re-activate the sauté function to integrate any final ingredients or seasonings.
Customizing Your Potato Soup
Potato soup is a canvas for creative cooks—each addition elevates the humble dish to new heights.
The customization options are boundless. If you fancy an extra savory note, consider roasting sweet peppers and garlic, or sautéing a medley of mushrooms to whisk into your soup.
The aroma alone can transform your kitchen. Celery, often an unsung hero in the veggie world, can offer a subtle crunch and a fresh flavor.
For those partial to texture, employ a potato masher for a chunkier feel, or turn to an immersion blender if a silky-smooth soup is more to your liking.
When conjuring the comforting flavors of a loaded baked potato, blend cream cheese and sharp cheddar cheese into your mixture. This duo bestows an irresistible creamy richness.
And, should cornstarch be absent from your pantry, brown rice flour is an excellent thickener standing by to serve.
Now, envision the next day’s experience with your leftover potato soup?
It only gets better! Dollop with sour cream, scatter a generous handful of shredded cheese, or sprinkle finely diced green onions atop.
Each serving then becomes a personal affair, inviting you to savor your creation afresh.
Vegetarian Alternatives
Creating a vegetarian Pot Potato Soup need not be a compromise on flavor.
Start with a simple swap—vegetable broth for chicken broth, and watch as the base transforms without losing its depth.
Should your recipe call for cream of chicken soup, try cream of celery as a plant-based stand-in.
It’s remarkable how it melds seamlessly into the background, enhancing the other flavors.
For vegans, the substitutions are straightforward yet effective. Butter steps aside for its plant-derived cousins, olive or vegetable oil.
Dairy milk is easily replaced with a variety of plant milks, such as soy, hemp, rice, or almond, which each bring their own subtle inflections to the soup.
Finally, gluten-free adherents can safely dive into a bowl of this hearty soup by opting for gluten-free flours—rice flour or chickpea flour for example—as thickening agents and ensuring any cream soup additions are certified gluten-free.
These adjustments are smart, simple, and maintain the soup’s character.
Popular Toppings (Bacon, Cheese, etc.)
Toppings are an expression of individual tastes, and they can elevate Potato Soup from a homey staple to a dish of indulgence.
Crumbled bacon, a perennial favorite, delivers crunch and a savory punch that is undeniably satisfying.
The sharp cheddar cheese, melted into gooey pockets, enriches the Soup with a velvety note, harking back to a deliciously dressed baked potato.
For those seeking balance, sour cream is a revelation.
Its cool tang provides a counterpoint to the prevailing richness and introduces a textural contrast.
Meanwhile, chives and sliced green onions scatter vibrancy, their crisp, oniony bite sparkling through the creamy backdrop.
Daring to defy convention? Why not sprinkle roasted broccoli or cauliflower as toppers?
Besides providing extra nutrition, these roasted veggies impart a charred edge—a delightful surprise within the creamy concoction.
Such variations are more than a finish—they’re a statement, turning each bowl of Pot Potato Soup into a special occasion.
Vegetarian Alternatives
Vegetarian Alternatives for Potato Soup
Making potato soup vegetarian-friendly is simple with a few ingredient swaps.
Replace traditional chicken broth with vegetable broth to maintain the hearty flavor without the meat.
Similarly, if your potato soup recipe calls for cream of chicken soup, opt for cream of celery soup instead to keep it within vegetarian dietary preferences.
For those adhering to a vegan lifestyle, potato soup can be easily modified.
Trade in the butter for a splash of vegetable or olive oil to sauté your veggies.
When it comes to the creamy element of the soup, dairy milk can be substituted with various plant-based milks, such as soy, hemp, rice, or almond milk, allowing you to achieve the desired creaminess without animal products.
Gluten-free modifications are also a breeze.
Switch out the regular cream of chicken soup for a gluten-free version and utilize gluten-free flours—like rice flour or chickpea flour—for any thickening needs.
The beauty of potato soup lies in its versatility, with these simple alterations, everyone can enjoy this delectable comfort food without compromising on taste or dietary requirements.
Preferred Substitutes:
- Chicken broth → Vegetable broth
- Cream of chicken soup → Cream of celery soup
- Butter → Vegetable/Olive oil
- Dairy milk → Soy/Hemp/Rice/Almond milk
- All-purpose flour → Gluten-free flours (Rice/Chickpea)
Popular Toppings (Bacon, Cheese, etc.)
When it comes to perfecting your potato soup, selecting the right toppings can transform it from simple to spectacular.
Crumbled bacon stands out as a top choice, lending a delightful crispiness and deep savory flavor that infuses throughout the bowl.
It’s not just about taste though; the contrasting textures make each spoonful a satisfying experience.
No potato soup feels complete without the luxurious addition of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
It melts into the hot soup, creating a rich and velvety consistency that’s irresistible.
For a burst of freshness and color, a dollop of sour cream adds a zesty counterpoint to the heartiness of the potatoes, while a sprinkle of chives or finely sliced green onions imparts a subtle, yet bright onion hint that complements the other flavors.
For those looking to include more greens in their meal, consider roasted broccoli or cauliflower as inventive toppings.
These roasted vegetables offer a delightful crunch and an extra layer of flavor.
Popular Toppings for Potato Soup:
- Crumbled Bacon: Savory and crisp
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Rich and creamy
- Sour Cream: Tangy and flavorful
- Chives/Green Onions: Fresh and mild
- Roasted Broccoli/Cauliflower: Crunchy and flavorful
Each topping adds a unique dimension, making the potato soup a customizable and hearty meal that caters to various tastes and preferences.
Tips for Storing Leftovers
To properly store leftover Instant Pot potato soup, follow these guidelines to ensure it remains fresh and delicious:
- Cool the soup to room temperature to prevent excess moisture from condensation, which may result in sogginess.
- Once cooled, place the soup in an airtight container and refrigerate it promptly. It should keep well for 2-3 days.
- For long-term storage, avoid freezing the soup with cream, as it may separate upon thawing. Instead, add cream after reheating.
- If you choose to freeze your soup, ensure it has completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. The soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To enjoy your leftover potato soup, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator if it was frozen.
- Reheat the soup gently—whether stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave—stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Remember, when reheating, bring the soup to a suitable temperature to enjoy its hearty flavors safely.
| Storage Tip | Instruction |
|---|---|
| Cooling Before Refrigeration | Allow soup to reach room temperature. |
| Refrigeration | Store in an airtight container for 2-3 days. |
| Freezing | Freeze without cream for up to 3 months. |
| Thawing | Allow to thaw completely in the fridge. |
| Reheating (Stovetop) | Reheat gently over medium-low heat. |
| Reheating (Microwave) | Heat evenly, ensuring the soup is thoroughly warm. |
Reheating Potato Soup Properly
A bowl of leftover potato soup can still be a delicious treat even after a couple of days.
To ensure the quality remains, proper reheating methods should be observed.
When reheating on the stovetop, transfer the soup into a saucepan and warm it over medium-low heat.
Be sure to stir consistently with a wooden spoon to achieve even heating and prevent sticking or burning on the bottom.
For those opting for the microwave, begin by setting the power to medium. Heat the soup for one minute initially and then continue in 30-second intervals.
Be sure to pause and stir between each burst of heat for uniform warmth.
To maintain the creamy texture and prevent the flavors from degrading, never overheat the soup.
By controlling the temperature and heating time, you can enjoy the rich taste as if it was freshly made.
Remember to store leftover potato soup in an airtight container in the fridge. Properly stored, it can last for 3 to 4 days.
By following these simple reheating techniques, you can savor the comforting essence of potato soup anytime you desire.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When crafting the perfect Pot Potato Soup in your electric pressure cooker, it’s helpful to prepare for potential issues that might arise during the cooking process.
The total cooking time in a pressure cooker is more than just the active minutes but encompasses the time it takes for the pot to pressurize as well as the release time, whether it’s a quick release or a natural release.
This means that patience is key when using a pressure cooker to create your creamy potato soup.
To sail smoothly through the process, it’s advisable to use a potato masher if you prefer a chunky texture, or an immersion blender for a creamier finish once the potatoes are fully cooked.
Furthermore, make sure the pressure valve is correctly set to sealing, which ensures pressure builds correctly in your Instant Pot.
After your soup is ready, the warm setting on the pressure cooker can maintain your soup at an ideal temperature for at least an hour, offering meal-time flexibility.
If you’re looking to tailor the recipe to specific dietary needs, consider altering ingredients like substituting chicken broth with vegetable broth while keeping the flavors intact.
Burnt Soup
Burnt soup can dampen the spirit of any cook.
Fortunately, the process of cooking potato soup in a pressure cooker significantly reduces the chances of experiencing this issue, as opposed to stovetop methods where constant vigilance is required to prevent scorching.
To make your potato soup, there’s no need to peel or drain the potatoes, which simplifies your Prep Time and minimizes the risk of burning.
The even heat distribution within a pressure cooker like the Instant Pot helps to infuse flavors quickly and uniformly, leading to a rich, well-cooked soup without the risk of burning.
Additionally, if the soup is left unattended, the warm setting comes to the rescue by preventing any overcooking.
Should your potato soup need reheating, remember to do it gently—using a stovetop or microwave—to preserve that sought-after creamy texture without the fear of scorching.
Undercooked Potatoes
A common issue when making potato soups is facing undercooked potatoes.
To circumvent this, Russet potatoes are often the tuber of choice; their aptness for absorbing flavors and creamy texture, once cooked, make them ideal for potato soups.
To ensure even cooking in a pressure cooker, it is best to cut these potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes.
Moreover, Russet potatoes typically require a certain cooking time on high pressure (for instance, 3 minutes) along with additional time to allow the pot to pressurize correctly.
In the event that the potatoes have not cooked to the desired tenderness, the addition of dairy such as milk or heavy cream post-cooking can help thicken the soup and compensate for less broken-down potatoes.
When selecting broth for cooking, opting for a low-sodium vegetable broth can be beneficial to manage the overall saltiness, ensuring a balanced flavor profile, especially if the potatoes are slightly firmer than expected.
By adhering to these tips and keeping an eye on cooking times, undercooked potatoes should become a thing of the past in your hearty soup creations.
Nutritional Information
When indulging in a hearty bowl of Instant Pot Potato Soup, it’s beneficial to consider the nutritional impact it has.
Each serving offers a substantial energy boost with approximately 338 calories.
Carbohydrates, the body’s primary energy source, are well-represented with 33 grams per serving.
Meanwhile, fats contribute significantly as well, with 20 grams that help keep you satiated.
Protein is not left behind, contributing around 9 grams to support tissue repair and muscle growth.
The soup also provides a moderate amount of dietary fiber, about 3 grams, essential for digestive health.
Sodium content stands at 320 mg per serving; hence, monitoring additional salt is wise, especially when selecting your chicken broth.
On the heart-health front, a notable 948 mg of potassium per serving aids in maintaining proper heart function.
Vitamins also grace this soup with their presence.
Vitamin A, around 482 IU, supports vision and immune health, while Vitamin C, at 16 mg, is crucial for repairing body tissues and enhancing iron absorption.
Embrace the goodness of Instant Pot Potato Soup while keeping these nutritional facts in mind for a balanced diet.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 338 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 33 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 320 mg |
| Potassium | 948 mg |
| Vitamin A | 482 IU |
| Vitamin C | 16 mg |
Complementary Dishes to Serve
Complementary Dishes to Serve with Instant Pot Baked Potato Soup
Instant Pot Baked Potato Soup is not only a creamy and satisfying treat on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes to create a fuller meal experience.
When serving this hearty soup, consider these delightful options:
- Grilled Meats: The robust flavors of grilled steak, chicken, or pork complement the rich and creamy characteristics of the potato soup.
- Light Salads: A fresh, light salad adds a crisp contrast to the soup’s texture, making for a well-rounded meal with diverse flavor profiles.
- Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole: This casserole is a decadent choice that echoes the comforting essence of pot potato soup, perfect for an indulgent side.
- Bread Accompaniment: No meal is complete without bread to sop up the soup, and choices like No Knead Artisan Bread or Cheesy Garlic Bread are excellent for the task.
- Vegetable Sides: For those seeking a healthier balance, Air Fryer Green Beans or Roasted Carrots provide essential nutrients without compromising taste.
Incorporating these complementary sides not only enhances the overall meal but ensures a diverse intake of flavors and textures, elevating the enjoyment of your Instant Pot Baked Potato Soup.
