As the weather cools down, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting bowl of soup to hit the spot. And when it comes to hearty and delicious soups, Germany has got it down pat! With a rich history of traditional cooking methods and a love for bold flavors, German soups are the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. From creamy potato soups to savory sausage stews, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 authentic German soup recipes.
In this article, we’ll be exploring some of Germany’s most beloved and iconic soup dishes, each with its own unique twist and flavor profile. Whether you’re looking for a comforting classic or a bold and spicy twist, we’ve got you covered. So grab your spoon and let’s dive in to the world of German soups!
Classic German Potato Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of German cuisine, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, it’s no wonder why this recipe has been passed down through generations.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the milk or heavy cream. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Traditional Goulash Soup
Traditional Goulash Soup is a classic Hungarian dish that’s both comforting and flavorful. This recipe is a simplified version of the original, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound beef or pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add meat; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add broth, water, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot, topped with sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Authentic German Lentil Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s a staple of German cuisine, made with red lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Soup with Thyme
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms, rich cream, and the warmth of thyme, making it an ideal dish for a chilly evening. With its velvety texture and aromatic flavor, this creamy mushroom soup is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, and flour. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer soup for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
German-Style Split Pea Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of German cuisine, made with tender split peas and a rich pork broth. Serve with crusty bread and a side salad for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green split peas
– 2 cups chicken or pork broth
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the split peas, broth, pork, onion, garlic, and caraway seeds.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hearty Beef and Vegetable Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines tender beef, a variety of colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices to create a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as potatoes, corn, peas, and green beans)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the mixed vegetables, beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
German Sausage and Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup is a classic German comfort food that combines the rich flavors of sausage, cabbage, and vegetables in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Bratwurst sausages
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and caraway seeds; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Bratwurst sausages; brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the chopped cabbage, chicken broth, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add milk or heavy cream for added richness.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Savory German Onion Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Savory German Onion Soup is a twist on the classic French onion soup. Caramelized onions add a depth of flavor to the rich beef broth, topped with melted Swiss cheese and crusty bread.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese, grated
– 2 slices of crusty bread
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
2. Add the olive oil, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat the broiler.
4. Ladle the soup into oven-proof bowls. Top each bowl with grated Swiss cheese and place under the broiler until melted and bubbly (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Serve immediately, topped with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beer Cheese Soup with Pretzel Croutons
Rich, creamy soup meets the perfect pairing – crispy pretzel croutons. This comforting treat is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beer (any type)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pretzel rods, cut into 1-inch pieces (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Pour in beer and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add chicken broth, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer soup for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Just before serving, toss pretzel pieces with a pinch of salt. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy.
6. Serve soup hot, topped with croutons and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Tomato and Basil Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy German-style cooking to create a comforting and delicious meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 sprigs fresh basil, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
3. Add tomatoes, broth, and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Stir in chopped basil; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Pumpkin and Sage Soup
This creamy soup combines the warmth of roasted pumpkin with the earthy flavor of sage, perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, chopped sage, and broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
6. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree soup until smooth.
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream or half-and-half to add richness.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
German Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with a hearty and comforting German-inspired chicken noodle soup, featuring tender chicken, soft noodles, and a hint of spice. This classic recipe is perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in butter until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, thyme, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy German Chili Soup
This hearty soup combines the bold flavors of Germany with a spicy kick, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. This recipe is easy to make and can be adjusted to suit your desired level of spiciness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
German-Style Fish Chowder
This hearty chowder is a staple of German cuisine, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Flaky fish, potatoes, and vegetables come together in a rich and creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cod or haddock fillets, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups fish stock (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine potatoes, onion, and garlic. Add enough water to cover the ingredients and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Add fish pieces to the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Stir in flour to thicken the broth.
5. Gradually add fish stock, whisking continuously.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
7. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Potato and Leek Soup
This creamy soup is a perfect blend of comforting potatoes, sweet leeks, and fragrant herbs, ideal for a cozy evening meal. With minimal ingredients and effort, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously flavorful bowl in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add leeks and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
3. Add potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the mixture to desired consistency.
5. Stir in heavy cream, if using, and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
German-Style Minestrone Soup
This comforting soup is a twist on the classic Italian minestrone, with added German flair from the use of sauerkraut and sausage. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as knockwurst or bratwurst), sliced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and sausage; cook until sausage is browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add broth, tomatoes, sauerkraut, and pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pasta is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bavarian Cream of Asparagus Soup
This rich and creamy soup is a delightful twist on the classic asparagus recipe, infused with the warm flavors of Bavaria.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add asparagus and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Purée soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender in batches.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
German-Style Sauerkraut Soup
This comforting soup is a twist on traditional German cuisine, combining the tangy flavor of sauerkraut with rich pork and vegetables. Serve it as a starter or main course for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, diced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the pork shoulder over medium heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped carrots, onion, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the sauerkraut, chicken broth, and heavy cream or half-and-half (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Sausage and Bean Soup
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly day, this Smoked Sausage and Bean Soup combines the rich flavors of smoked sausage with creamy beans and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soaked and drained beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 30-40 minutes or until the beans are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
German-Style Cream of Celery Soup
A rich and comforting soup that highlights the natural sweetness of celery, paired with a hint of nutmeg and cream.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 stalks celery, chopped (about 2 cups)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add chopped celery and garlic; cook until the celery is tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or croutons if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these delicious and authentic German soup recipes! This collection features 20 hearty and flavorful soups that are sure to become family favorites. From classic potato soup to creamy mushroom soup, and from traditional goulash to savory onion soup, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the rich flavors of Germany, with ingredients like sausage, cabbage, lentils, and beer adding depth and character. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a festive dish for your next gathering, these German soups are sure to hit the spot.
Leave a Reply