Potato Garlic Scape Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s a great way to use up garlic scapes, which are often overlooked in the kitchen. The combination of potatoes and garlic scapes creates a silky, smooth texture, while the garlic adds a subtle flavor that isn’t too overpowering. It’s such a cozy and hearty soup that works perfectly as a light lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s super easy to make, and the ingredients are simple and affordable. Every spoonful is comforting, and the soup keeps you warm and satisfied without being too heavy.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 bunch garlic scapes, chopped (about 10-12 scapes)

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 1 cup water

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative)

• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and chopped garlic scapes, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Cook the Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic. Pour in the vegetable broth and water, then season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.

3. Blend the Soup: Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender. Be sure to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid splashing hot soup. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little extra water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

4. Finish the Soup: After blending, return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream (or dairy-free alternative). Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Let it cook for a few more minutes to heat through.

5. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a light salad on the side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 4 servings. The total prep time is around 10-15 minutes, with an additional 25-30 minutes for cooking, so it should be ready in about 40-45 minutes.

Variations

• Herb Variations: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor of the soup. These herbs pair beautifully with the garlic scapes and potatoes.

• Vegan Option: For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a non-dairy cream. You can also add a bit of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

• Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper when sautéing the onions and garlic.

Storage/Reheating

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. You can make it a day or two ahead of time and simply reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use regular garlic instead of garlic scapes?

While garlic scapes provide a unique, mild flavor, you can substitute them with more garlic cloves. However, the soup will have a stronger garlic flavor. Start with 4-5 cloves of garlic and adjust to taste.

Can I make this soup without blending it?

Yes, if you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip the blending step. Just make sure to cook the potatoes until they are very soft and tender for a creamy texture without the blending.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or a light sandwich for a more substantial meal.

How do I adjust the consistency of the soup?

If the soup is too thick, you can add more vegetable broth or water to thin it out. For a thicker soup, cook it a little longer to reduce the liquid, or add an extra potato to the pot.

Conclusion

Potato Garlic Scape Soup is one of those comforting recipes that brings warmth to both the body and soul. The creamy texture and mild garlic flavor make it a perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or making it for a cozy family meal, this soup is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up garlic scapes when they’re in season!