This homemade German potato soup (Kartoffelsuppe) is a warm, creamy, and simple vegan stew. Combining potatoes with carrots, celery, onion, and a selection of additional herbs, spices, and dairy-free cream leads to a more-ish comforting dish perfect for the colder months. Plus, this recipe is gluten-free, dairy-free, and will have everyone returning to for seconds (and thirds!).
Creamy Vegan Potato Soup
Is anyone else as obsessed with hearty vegan soup recipes as I am? I honestly believe that soups are so underrated; all these ‘fancy’ cooking shows seem to almost make fun of ‘simple,’ ‘boring’ soup, but personally, I can spoon my way through a big bowl of soup and then go back for more. This chunky potato soup is no different.
German potato soup – called Kartoffelsuppe in German- is super popular in Germany and is another one of those traditional dishes that ‘everyone’s Oma knows and cooks with love’. The ingredients are humble and low-cost (and probably many are already in your pantry/fridge), the soup is quick to prepare, yet it is so satisfyingly creamy and flavorful that you’d never be able to call it ‘boring.’
As is always the case, there are several ways to adapt this recipe to your liking and what you have available, too. Depending on what texture you prefer, you can prepare this as chunky potato stew consistency, super smooth and creamy, or even a half-and-half smooth and chunky potato soup (how I like it). Want to add some spice? No problem. Want an even healthier version? I have got tips for that too!
This recipe works well as a small appetizer, quick and healthy lunch, or hearty evening meal topped with sliced meat-free sausages- change the portion size.
Luckily, as this recipe is also a great meal-prep option, it gives you a chance to change it up during the week, so you’ll never get bored. Just because this is an easy soup recipe, doesn’t mean it’s not delightfully delicious!
Humble, Low-Cost Ingredients
Not only is this soup simple to make, but it’s made up largely of low-cost veggies and pantry staples, with several ingredient subs and additions you could make.
The base of this vegetarian potato soup can be made with a very popular traditional German ‘soup medley’ of vegetables called “Suppengrün” (Soup Greens), which consists of carrot, leek, parsley, and celeriac. These vegetables combined make up a delicious base to a vast array of German dishes. So much so that you can even buy pre-made ‘bundles’ of the veggies in many supermarkets/stores (and often cheaper than purchasing each individually).
Within this vegan potato soup recipe, I’ve made two tweaks; I’ve left the note that you can use celery rather than celeriac, as I’m aware that it’s easier to get a hold for many/ more familiar to many. If you can get your hands on some celeriac though, then definitely go for it. While the flavor is like celery, it is also root-like and potatoey in ways, with a slightly nutty flavor too – which works wonderfully when combined with potatoes.
In fact, if you’re not used to cooking with celeriac, you may be surprised to learn that it can be prepared in many of the same ways as potato; mashed, roasted, cubed.
The other tweak I made was to leave leek as optional – I know, I know, this goes against the whole point of the traditional Suppengrün. Honestly, though, I’ve tried this recipe multiple times with and without and find it delicious both ways – plus you have one less ingredient to deal with! So, I’ll leave the choice up to you.
You can read the rest of my ingredient notes and subs in the recipe notes section below.
The Step-By-Step Instructions
For the full ingredients list, ingredient measurements, and nutritional information, then please read the recipe card below.
Step 1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the onion. Sauté for 3 minutes, then add garlic, celery, carrots, potatoes, and all spices. Sauté for a further one minute.
Step 2. Pour in the vegetable broth + bay leaves and bring the soup to a boil.
Step 3. Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are softened. Then remove the bay leaves (if used).
Step 4. For my preferred texture, pour about half of the soup into a different pot then blend one half with an immersion blender/blender until smooth.
If using a blender then make sure to work in batches and not overfill the blender. You could also blend the entire soup.
Step 5. Pour the blended soup back into the large pot, add the dairy-free cream (or canned coconut milk) and stir to combine. Allow it to simmer for a few more minutes, taste it, and adjust seasonings if necessary. Add more salt/pepper to taste and red pepper flakes for heat.
Serve in bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
How To Serve
If this vegan potato soup is on the table, then there is always some sort of bread to go along with it. I mean, is there anything better than a spoonful of warm soup, fresh bread, and maybe also some melty vegan butter?
For this soup, Gluten-Free Bread, Bread Rolls, or even Cornbread would work well!
In terms of ‘toppings,’ German potato soup is often served along with bacon or sausages, so feel free to use some vegan bacon or try out my homemade Vegan Sausage Recipe. You could also add chives, green onions, or even some lightly toasted slithered almonds.
For a slightly cheesy flavor, then sprinkle over some Vegan Parmesan Cheese mix (nooch-based, of course!)
How To Store
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It is also freezer-friendly for up to 3 months.
To thaw simply leave in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Recipe Notes
- The Cream: You can use any dairy-free cream (soy cream, oat cream, cashew cream, or canned coconut milk). Use plant-based milk for a low-fat version.
- Celery: In Germany, it’s traditional to use celeriac (celery root) and is definitely recommended if you can. However, if you can’t find it, you can use celery stalks (ribs).
- Marjoram: This is an ingredient I wouldn’t recommend omitting as it really adds a wonderful flavor to this soup. If you don’t have it though, you can add a little thyme and/or rosemary instead.
- The Potatoes: I like to use all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Golds. Floury potatoes (ones you’d use for mash) also work well.
Variations
- Feel free to add leek to the soup base, for a traditional German potato soup.
- Add some broccoli, peas, green asparagus, spinach, kale, or other greens for a creamy, hearty green potato soup.
- To adjust how thick/ thin the soup is, simply adjust the amount of broth added.
- This recipe should be Instant Pot friendly, though I haven’t tried it. Sauté the veg for a few minutes then add the remainder of the ingredients and cook for 4 minutes on high pressure before blending.
- For a cheesier soup, you can add a little vegan cream cheese in with the cream or even top the soup with a little cheese or vegan Parmesan cheese alternative.
- Feel free to experiment with the herbs/spices. Cumin may be a good addition or a little cayenne for heat.
- Blend the soup according to your preferred texture. Blend just a small portion for a delicious potato stew, blend half for a creamy, chunky mix, or blend it all for a smooth and creamy version (you will need to add more broth then).
Other Healthy Vegan Soup Recipes:
- Vegan Tortilla Soup
- Mexican Pinto Bean Soup
- Easy Tomato Pasta Soup
- Vegan Broccoli Cheese Soup
- Easy Veggie Stew With Peas
- Vegan Carrot Ginger Soup
- Vegan Corn Chowder
If you give this German Potato soup recipe a try, I’d love a comment and ★★★★★ recipe rating below. Also, don’t forget to tag me in re-creations on Instagram or Facebook with @elavegan and #elavegan – I love seeing your recreations.
Vegan Potato Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 onion diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 2 stalks celery or 1/2 small celery root, diced (see notes)
- 2 medium carrots diced
- 2 pounds (900 g) potatoes chopped
- 1/2 tsp dried marjoram (see notes)
- 1 Pinch of nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups (1000 ml) vegetable broth or water
- 2 whole bay leaves (optional)
- 1/3 cup (80 g) dairy-free cream (see notes)
- Fresh parsley to garnish
- Vegan sausage sliced (optional)
Instructions
- You can watch the video in the post for easy visual instructions.Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the onion. Sauté for 3 minutes, then add garlic, celery, carrots, potatoes, and all spices. Sauté for a further one minute.
- Pour in the vegetable broth + bay leaves (if using) and bring the soup to a boil.
- Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
- Pour about half of the soup into a different pot. Take out the bay leaves (if used).
- Blend this part using an immersion blender until smooth. You can also blend the soup in a regular blender. Make sure to work in batches and not to overfill the blender.
- Pour the blended soup back into the large pot, add the dairy-free cream or canned coconut milk and stir to combine. Let simmer for a few more minutes, taste it, and adjust seasonings. Add more salt/pepper to taste and red pepper flakes for heat.
- Serve in bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and top with slices of vegan sausage (optional). Enjoy!
Notes
Video Of The Recipe
- Celery: In Germany, it's traditional to use celeriac (celery root). However, if you can't find it, you can use celery stalks (ribs).
- Marjoram: I really recommend adding it as it adds a wonderful flavor to this soup. If you don't have it, you can add a little thyme and/or rosemary instead.
- Cream: You can use any dairy-free cream (soy cream, oat cream, cashew cream, or canned coconut milk). Use plant-based milk for a low-fat version.
- You can add other veggies such as leek, broccoli, asparagus, etc.
- I recommend using all-purpose potatoes like Yukon Gold.
- If you want to have a creamy soup, then blend all of it until completely smooth (you'll need to add more broth).
- Recipe serves 4. Nutrition facts are for one serving.
Nutrition information is an estimate and has been calculated automatically
Linda
I found this recipe while scrolling through Pinterest looking for dinner ideas. I made it the same night with all of the ingredients which I had on hand. It was so easy and so delicious! I threw in some frozen pierogies to round out the meal and my entire family ate it up! Thanks for the delicious recipe!
Ela
Yay, that’s amazing, Linda! I am so glad you liked the soup. 🙂
Brittany Tsambasis
I made this tonight and it was phenomenal and so satiating! I added the leeks, broccoli, and asparagus and also added the red pepper flakes to balance the sweetness from the coconut cream. Blended half the soup like suggested and it was the perfect consistency, will for sure make again. Thank you for the awesome recipe 🙂
Ela
That’s wonderful, Brittany! Thanks so much for your great feedback. 🙂
Maleah
Absolutely delicious! I was looking for a vegan option everyone could enjoy, and I found the perfect one. My dad added some curry powder to the pot which was a nice touch, and I added butter to my personal bowl just to experiment with the difference. I’ll definitely be making this again.
Ela
I am so glad you liked it, Maleah. 🙂
Tiana
Lollllll really thought this would last more than 3 days, but it’s so good that we’re eating it at an alarming rate. Subbed oregano for the marjoram, but still added thyme and fresh rosemary. Threw in some frozen peas that have been hanging out in the freezer for a while, and loved the added color and texture. Used Soy milk for the cream. An amazing recipe, thank you for sharing!
Ela
Sounds wonderful, Tiana! I am so glad it turned out delicious. 🙂
Rachel A Hyman
Outstanding!!!
Easy to make and so delicious!
Definitely adding this to my arsenal.
Thank you!
Ela
So happy you liked it 🙂
Betina
I am eating the soup for the 1st time while writing this. It’ has not disappointed me, and will definitely make it again. Thank you Ela for another great recipe!
Ela
That’s wonderful, Betina! I am glad you like it. 🙂
Harriet
Absolutely love this soup. Delicious. Can you keep this in the fridge and for how long?
Ela
Yes, you can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. 🙂
Laura M Smith
Can I just use regular dairy cream? We don’t need it to be vegan or dairy free
Ela
I didn’t try it, of course, but it should be no problem.
Maggie
Made this for dinner last night. Topped it with crumbled Beyond Breakfast sausage. It was delicious! Had more for lunch today. Thank you!
Ela
I am so glad you liked it, Maggie. 🙂
Guin
This looks delicious. How many potatoes does it require? Would you say 900g is about 8 potatoes?
Ela
It really depends on the size. A potato can weigh between 150-200 grams on average.
Jennifer
Delicious! I made this last night for the first time. My husband had 2 heaping bowls and I had 2 servings myself. Even my seven-year-old liked it. I used 1/2 a can of unsweetened coconut coconut milk in place of the vegan cream cheese. It was perfect!
Ela
Sounds wonderful, Jennifer! I am so glad you liked it. 🙂
Judi Ratzlaff
Very good soup. Made it yesterday for lunch. Last night my daughter added meatballs to it for her dinner.
Ela
I am glad you liked it, Judi. 🙂
Nancy
I made this soup today, using the celery root and the marjoram. Amazingly delicious!!
Thank you for a delicious recipe!
Ela
That’s awesome, Nancy! I am so glad you liked it. 🙂
Lennieandthejetts
No leftovers here! Made this using the rosemary & thyme subs for the marjoram. I added chopped asparagus, unsweetened almond milk & used hand emulsifier to blend just slightly. A dash of white pepper brought some delicious heat! Man o man, this is fantastic!
Ela
That’s awesome! I am so glad you enjoyed the soup. Thanks for your wonderful feedback! 🙂
Joanne B
Looks really good and simple too which is always a bonus.
Just wanted to point out that if you did this is an instant pot for 15 mins it would be complete mush! I wouldn’t cook it for anymore than 4 mins followed by a quick release. I’ve cooked casseroles with chopped potatoes and vegetables for 5 mins and they’ve been over done. You also generally a reduced amount of stock.
Ela
Thanks so much for sharing, Joanne! That’s good to know, I will add the info to the notes! 🙂
Ronen
Tried the potato soup yesterday and it was delicious! I’m not really much of a cook, but I tried a few recipes from your blog and they were enjoyable to make and all came out amazing (for example also the corn chowder, and the spinach/ricotta cannelloni). Not actually a vegan, nor a vegetarian, just trying to cut down on meat and found your recipes which have all been very successful so far. Will keep on trying many more from your site. Thank you for your efforts!
Ela
That’s awesome, Ronen! I am glad you enjoyed my recipes and happy that you are trying to cut down on meat. 🙂 Thanks for your feedback!
Maria
Made this soup yesterday and wow Hubby loved it. He’s not vegan but only added a little vegan cheese to it. I cooked it in a crock pot on low for 6 hours and it turned out delicious. Thank you so much for your wonderful recipes????????????
Ela
That’s awesome Maria! I am so glad it turned out great. Thanks for the slow cooker information. Very helpful. 🙂
Em
Hi Maria, did you add the milk towards the end of the 6 hrs or at the start? I scrolled the comments hoping someone had used a crockpot! ????
Dolores Goddard
Have made variations of this soup. I am polish so it is very close
Ela
Sounds awesome! 🙂
Anita
It’s a fabulous recipe – made it today with a variation ! I steamed beans, peas, broccoli,zucchini – boiled some potatoes and added to it. Sautéed portobello mushroom and aubergine and added to
The veggies with fresh parsley. For the sauce, sauté leeks, carrot, potato, celeriac garlic and bay leaf. Add stock and boil, blend and add it veggies and top it with low fat coconut milk and marjoram.
Grill veggie sausage and chop and add on top. Divine hearty recipe
Ela
Sounds great! Happy you liked it, Anita. 🙂
Amelia
lol that’s a whole different soup
Annie
lol- I had the same thought!
Kim
Just made this for dinner and topped with beyond brat sausages. SO GOOD. so easy and delicious my wife and roomate could not get enough. 10/10 will be making again very soon (:
Ela
Yay, that’s amazing, Kim! Thanks for your great feedback. 🙂