If you’re looking for something unique, comforting, and full of flavor, then Dill Pickle Soup is a dish you absolutely must try! A beloved Polish traditional soup, it’s surprisingly delicious and a perfect way to enjoy the tart, briny flavor of pickled gherkins in a warm, creamy broth. This soup balances tangy pickles with creamy potatoes and a touch of dill, creating a rich and hearty bowl that’s perfect for cold winter days. Whether you’re craving something new or simply love pickles, this tangy treat will surely surprise and delight your taste buds!
Ingredients:
- 4-5 medium potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 1 tablespoon butter (or vegetable oil)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
- 1 1/2 cups pickled gherkins (chopped, plus some of the pickle juice)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (or heavy cream for a richer version)
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (or fresh dill, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- Chopped fresh dill (for garnish)
- Pickled gherkins (for serving, optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Soup Base:
- In a large pot, heat the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Stir in the diced potatoes and vegetable broth. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and the bay leaf (if using). Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Add the Pickles:
- Once the potatoes are cooked through, stir in the chopped pickled gherkins and about 1/4 cup of pickle juice. The pickle juice will add a wonderful tang to the broth and enhance the flavor of the soup.
- Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, so the pickles can infuse their flavor into the broth.
- Finish the Soup:
- Remove the bay leaf (if used) and carefully puree about half of the soup using an immersion blender. Alternatively, transfer half of the soup to a regular blender, puree until smooth, and return it to the pot. This will create a thick, creamy texture, while still leaving some chunky pieces for added texture.
- Stir in the sour cream (or heavy cream) and dried dill, and taste for seasoning. Adjust with salt, pepper, or more pickle juice if you want a more tangy flavor.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh dill, and top with extra chopped pickled gherkins for some added crunch and flavor. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Tips:
- Pickle Juice: The amount of pickle juice you add depends on how tangy you like your soup. Start with a little and taste as you go to ensure it doesn’t become too sour.
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version, or chicken broth for a heartier, meat-based soup.
- Creaminess: For an extra creamy soup, you can add more sour cream or blend in some heavy cream at the end.
- Pickles: While gherkins are traditional, you can use any type of pickled cucumber. If you prefer less tang, use sweet pickles instead of dill ones.
- Caraway Seeds: These seeds are a traditional ingredient in many Polish soups and can add a unique, slightly nutty flavor. If you don’t have them, feel free to omit them or substitute with fennel seeds for a different twist.
Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: ~220 kcal
- Protein: ~4g
- Fat: ~12g
- Carbs: ~27g
- Fiber: ~4g
- WW Points: 6 points (depending on the cream and pickle juice used)
Why You’ll Love Dill Pickle Soup:
Dill Pickle Soup is a comfort food with a twist. The combination of creamy potatoes and tangy pickles creates a perfectly balanced soup that’s both satisfying and surprisingly refreshing. The rich, velvety texture of the soup is balanced by the crisp bite of the pickled gherkins, and the flavors deepen as the soup simmers. It’s a dish that’s both familiar and unusual—perfect for pickle lovers or anyone looking to try something new. Plus, it’s a great vegetarian meal that can be made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Dill Pickle Soup is a fun, flavorful way to enjoy the comforts of soup with a zesty kick!
