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Hearty High-Protein Potato Soup: A Nutritious Twist on a Classic Favourite

Potato soup is a beloved dish in many households, offering warmth and comfort during chilly days. Traditionally, it is creamy and rich, often loaded with butter and cream, which, although delicious, can detract from its nutritional value. In this article, we’re going to explore a healthy, high-protein version of potato soup that retains all the hearty goodness while boosting its health benefits. This soup is perfect for a filling lunch or a light dinner and is stunningly simple to make.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare this healthy high-protein potato soup, you will need the following ingredients:

• 500g of potatoes (preferably Yukon Gold or Maris Piper)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 750ml of vegetable or chicken stock
• 400ml of unsweetened almond milk (or any other plant-based milk)
• 200g of cooked lentils (green or brown)
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• A pinch of salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish

Method

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by peeling and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. This will help them cook faster and make for a smoother soup.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being cautious not to let it brown.

3. Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir well to coat them in the onion and garlic mixture. Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock, ensuring the potatoes are submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Add Lentils and Seasoning: Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the cooked lentils and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to warm the lentils through.

5. Blend the Soup: For a creamy texture without the added calories of cream, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend just half of the soup and leave some potato pieces intact.

6. Incorporate Almond Milk: Pour in the almond milk, stirring well to combine. Allow the soup to warm gently for another few minutes.

7. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a splash of colour and extra flavour.

Nutritional Benefits

This high-protein potato soup not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers numerous nutritional benefits:

• Protein Power: By adding lentils, this soup becomes a protein-rich option. Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making it a great choice for vegetarians and vegans alike.

• High in Fibre: The combination of potatoes and lentils provides a significant amount of dietary fibre, essential for maintaining digestive health and keeping you feeling fuller for longer.

• Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, B6, and potassium. The addition of lentils enhances the nutrient profile by adding iron and folate, making this soup not just filling but also incredibly nourishing.

• Low in Calories: This version of potato soup has substantially fewer calories than traditional creamy versions, making it a guilt-free option that can be enjoyed any day of the week.

Final Thoughts

This healthy high-protein potato soup is an excellent example of how traditional recipes can be adapted to meet modern nutritional needs without compromising on flavour. Whether you’re looking for a wholesome meal for the family or a satisfying lunch to fuel your day, this soup is sure to impress. Enjoy it as is or pair it with a slice of whole grain bread for a complete meal. So grab your ingredients, and let’s bring some warmth into your kitchen with this nutritious and delicious potato soup!