When it comes to warm and comforting meals, there’s no better place to look than Germany. Hearty soups are a staple in many German households, especially during the colder months. And with good reason – they’re packed with nutritious ingredients like potatoes, lentils, cabbage, and mushrooms that will keep you full and satisfied all day long.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 delicious German soup recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From classic potato soups to beer-infused cheese soups, and from creamy mushroom soups to spicy sausage-based broths, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a spoon and let’s dive in!
Classic German Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that’s a staple of German cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, diced
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they’re translucent.
2. Add the potatoes, carrot, garlic, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness and creaminess.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bavarian Beer Cheese Soup
Warm up with this rich and creamy soup that combines the flavors of Bavaria’s famous beer and cheese. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup Bavarian beer (such as Weissbier)
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
2. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in beer, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer soup for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
German Lentil Soup with Sausage
This hearty soup is a classic German comfort food, perfect for a cold winter’s day. With the rich flavors of sausage and lentils, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound German sausage (such as knockwurst or bratwurst), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sausage; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, broth, water, and caraway seeds. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Kartoffelsuppe (German Potato Soup)
A hearty and comforting German-inspired soup that warms the soul, Kartoffelsuppe is a staple of German cuisine. This recipe yields a rich and creamy potato soup with a hint of nutmeg and a touch of acidity from the vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add diced potatoes, broth, milk or heavy cream, flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in vinegar and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
German Split Pea Soup
Experience the comforting flavors of Germany with this hearty and delicious soup made with green split peas, pork, and a touch of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green split peas, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the pork cubes and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, split peas, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the peas are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Frankfurter Grüne Soße Soup
This classic German soup is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. Frankfurter Grüne Soße, which translates to “green sauce” from Frankfurt, is a creamy and flavorful soup made with vegetables, chicken broth, and a hint of green pepper.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, peas)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Frankfurter Grüne Soße paste (or substitute with green pepper sauce)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mixed vegetables, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in Frankfurter Grüne Soße paste (or green pepper sauce). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup is a classic German dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With its rich flavors and tender cabbage, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cabbage, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Leberknödelsuppe (Liver Dumpling Soup)
This traditional Austrian soup is a hearty and comforting meal, perfect for a cold winter’s day. Leberknödel, or liver dumplings, add a rich and savory flavor to this creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef liver, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chopped liver; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and flour. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the soup thickens slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
German Onion Soup
A classic German soup that’s perfect for a cozy evening. This flavorful and aromatic soup is made with caramelized onions, beef broth, and topped with croutons and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Gruyère or Emmental cheese (optional)
– Croutons for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Sprinkle flour over the onions and cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated cheese and croutons if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45 minutes
Goulash Soup with Red Wine
This classic Hungarian soup is a perfect comfort food, rich and flavorful, with tender beef and vegetables cooked in a bold red wine broth. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add beef, diced tomatoes, red wine, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
3. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
German Mushroom Soup
Warm up with a hearty and comforting German-style mushroom soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
4. Pour in broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half.
7. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Flädlesuppe (Pancake Strip Soup)
A hearty and comforting German soup made with tender pancake strips, vegetables, and a rich chicken broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups pancake batter (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a simmer in a large pot.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Meanwhile, cook the pancake batter according to package instructions or make your own using flour, eggs, and milk.
5. Cut the cooked pancakes into thin strips.
6. Add the diced potatoes, pancake strips, and milk to the pot. Simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
German Tomato Soup with Basil
German Tomato Soup with Basil Recipe
Summary:
Experience the flavors of Germany with this hearty tomato soup infused with fresh basil, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped tomatoes, broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in dried basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Kohlrabi Soup with Bacon
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, featuring the underrated kohlrabi vegetable paired with crispy bacon. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized kohlrabi, peeled and chopped into small pieces
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the butter and chopped onion to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the chopped kohlrabi and chicken broth to the pot, stirring well.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the kohlrabi is tender.
6. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
7. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
German Asparagus Soup
This hearty soup is a classic German dish, perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting side dish. With the sweetness of asparagus and the creaminess of potatoes, you’ll be hooked from the first spoonful.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add asparagus, potatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, returning it to the pot.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Eintopf (German Stew-Style Soup)
Savor the hearty flavors of Germany with this comforting Eintopf, a traditional stew-style soup that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add meat and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in broth and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
German Pumpkin Soup
German Pumpkin Soup Recipe
Summary: Warm up with a comforting and flavorful German-inspired pumpkin soup, perfect for a chilly fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add pumpkin cubes and chicken broth; bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness and creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rheinischer Sauerbraten Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup inspired by traditional German cuisine, Rheinischer Sauerbraten Soup is a comforting blend of beef, vegetables, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or beef shank, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground allspice
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add broth, vinegar, sugar, allspice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return beef to the pot. Simmer for 1-2 hours or until meat is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 18 hearty German soup recipes that are sure to warm your belly and your soul. From classic potato soups to rich beer cheese soups, there’s something for everyone. Sausage adds a meaty twist to lentil soup, while bacon brings smokiness to kohlrabi soup. Asparagus and pumpkin soups offer a sweet and savory contrast. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy or clear broth-based, these German soup recipes are sure to hit the spot on a chilly day.
Leave a Reply