As the weather starts to cool, there’s nothing quite like a warm and comforting bowl of soup to hit the spot. Germany has a rich tradition of hearty and flavorful soups that are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. From classic potato soup to creamy beer cheese soup, there’s something for everyone on this list of 18 German soup recipes.
One of the most iconic German soups is Kartoffelsuppe, or potato soup, made with tender chunks of potatoes, onions, and carrots. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of year. Another popular option is Bavarian Beer Cheese Soup, which combines the rich flavors of beer and cheese for a creamy and indulgent treat.
Classic German Potato Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This classic German potato soup is a staple of Bavarian cuisine, made with tender potatoes, creamy milk, and a hint of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Nutmeg, grated (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. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Gradually add broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Add diced potatoes, milk, salt, and pepper. Simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley and grated nutmeg if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Bavarian Beer Cheese Soup
Warm up with a rich and creamy soup that combines the flavors of Germany’s famous beer culture with a comforting cheesy broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 12 ounces beer (any dark lager or pilsner works well)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
2. Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer; cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Add the beer and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
German Lentil Soup with Sausage
German Lentil Soup with Sausage: A hearty and comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of sausage, lentils, and vegetables with a hint of German spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as knockwurst), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the sausage and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Frankfurter Green Sauce Soup
Frankfurter Green Sauce Soup Recipe
A creamy and refreshing soup that combines the flavors of Germany’s famous Frankfurter green sauce with tender vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup Frankfurter green sauce
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, vegetable broth, and Frankfurter green sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Traditional German Pea Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of German cuisine, made with fresh peas, vegetables, and a touch of cream. Perfect for a cold winter’s day, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound split peas (green or yellow)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 medium celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add peas, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until peas are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Kartoffelsuppe (German Potato Soup)
This hearty and comforting soup is a staple of German cuisine, made with tender potatoes, onions, and a touch of cream. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender in batches) to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Stir in the heavy cream. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
German Onion Soup with Cheese Croutons
A rich and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, topped with crispy cheese croutons.
Ingredients:
– 3 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
– Bread, cubed (for cheese croutons)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions in butter and olive oil over medium heat until caramelized.
2. Add beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Preheat broiler.
4. Butter bread cubes and place on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with Gruyère cheese.
5. Broil croutons until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Stir heavy cream into soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Ladle soup into bowls and top with cheese croutons. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
German Cabbage Soup with Bacon
This hearty soup is a classic German dish that combines the flavors of tender cabbage, crispy bacon, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 can of condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 teaspoon of caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot, leaving the drippings behind.
3. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Goulash Soup German Style
This hearty soup originates from the heart of Germany, where rich beef broth meets tender vegetables and savory spices. A warm and comforting bowl, perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (marrow or knuckle)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Roast the beef bones in a baking dish for 30 minutes.
3. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add roasted beef bones, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
German Tomato Soup with Dumplings
A hearty and comforting German-inspired soup that combines the richness of tomatoes with the warmth of fluffy dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Dumpling mixture: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup milk, 1 egg, salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add tomatoes, broth, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine dumpling mixture ingredients. Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth. Drop by spoonfuls onto the soup surface.
4. Simmer the soup with dumplings for an additional 10-15 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
German Mushroom Soup with Herbs
This hearty soup is a classic German comfort food, made with sautéed mushrooms and fresh herbs. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 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
– 2 sprigs fresh parsley
– 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 mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat; simmer for 15 minutes.
6. Stir in heavy cream and fresh herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Pumpkin Soup with Apples
This creamy soup combines the warmth of pumpkin with the sweetness of apples, perfect for a cozy fall evening. The addition of nutmeg and allspice gives it a traditional German flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 small pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 apple, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
– 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 garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add pumpkin, apple, chicken broth, nutmeg, and allspice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, allow it to cool and blend in a food processor.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Beef and Vegetable Soup
This hearty soup is a classic German dish that combines tender beef with an assortment of colorful vegetables, all simmered in a rich broth. Serve with crusty bread or over egg noodles for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the vegetables, broth, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
German Chicken Noodle Soup
This hearty soup is a classic German comfort food that’s perfect for a chilly day. With tender chicken, soft noodles, and a rich broth, it’s sure to warm your belly and your heart.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until they’re tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
German Sauerkraut Soup with Sausage
This hearty soup is a classic German comfort food, perfect for a chilly day. The tangy sauerkraut pairs perfectly with the rich flavor of sausage and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lb German sausage (such as knockwurst or bratwurst), sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sauerkraut, potatoes, chicken broth, and water to the pot.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Asparagus Soup with Cream
As spring arrives, a warm and comforting bowl of asparagus soup is the perfect way to celebrate the season. This creamy German-inspired recipe is a delightful twist on traditional asparagus dishes.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add asparagus, broth, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until asparagus is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to the pot.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Red Wine Soup
Warm up with this rich and hearty soup, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add red wine, chicken broth, heavy cream, tomato paste, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Bread Soup with Cheese
This traditional German soup is a comforting and flavorful blend of stale bread, vegetables, and melted cheese. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or as a soothing meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale bread, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the bread and broth to the pot; bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the bread has broken down and the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the cheddar and Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 18 hearty German soup recipes that will warm your belly and your soul. From classic potato soup to Bavarian beer cheese soup, there’s something for every taste bud. Try traditional German pea soup or Kartoffelsuppe (German potato soup) for a comforting bowl. For a twist, try the German lentil soup with sausage, Frankfurter green sauce soup, or the creamy German mushroom soup with herbs. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and easy or rich and satisfying, these German soup recipes are sure to hit the spot.