When it comes to warm, comforting meals that satisfy the soul, German soups are a staple. Hearty, flavorful, and often made with simple ingredients, these soups are perfect for a cozy night in or as a filling meal after a long day. From classic potato soup to creamy mushroom and rich goulash, Germany has a wealth of delicious soup options to try. In this article, we’ll explore 18 hearty German soup recipes that are sure to become new favorites. Whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl to warm up on a chilly winter evening or a light, refreshing option for a summer’s day, these soups have got you covered.
Classic German Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, a staple of German cuisine. This hearty potato soup is made with tender potatoes, savory bacon, and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, milk, and cooked bacon to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in the butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Traditional German Lentil Soup
Warm up with this classic recipe that’s been a staple in German cuisine for generations. This comforting lentil soup is packed with tender vegetables, aromatic spices, and plenty of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 bay leaf
– 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 water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, broth, caraway seeds, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy German Mushroom Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this creamy German mushroom soup is packed with earthy flavors and a rich, velvety texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low; let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
German Beer Cheese Soup
Warm up with a rich and creamy German-inspired soup that combines the flavors of beer, cheese, and spices. This comforting recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or as a unique twist on traditional soups.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp work best)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup light beer (Pilsner or Oktoberfest-style work well)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Sprinkle flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Gradually add broth, beer, and paprika. Whisk until smooth.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Authentic German Goulash Soup
Authentic German Goulash Soup Recipe
Germans love their hearty soups, and this goulash recipe is a classic comfort food that warms the soul. With tender beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth, it’s no wonder this soup has become a staple in many German households.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck or shank, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add beef, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the beef is tender.
3. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
German Split Pea Soup with Sausage
This hearty soup is a classic German comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas (green or yellow)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large sausage (such as knockwurst or bratwurst), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and sausage; cook until the sausage is browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, peas, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Bavarian Creamy Leek Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is a twist on traditional leek soups, with the addition of Bavarian-style creaminess. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped leeks and onion; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the leeks are tender.
3. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Cabbage Soup with Bacon
This hearty soup is a classic German comfort food that’s perfect for a chilly evening. The sweetness of the cabbage pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the bacon, making it a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of milk or heavy cream
– 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 bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pot.
3. Add the butter, onion, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, chicken broth, milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Hearty German Beef and Vegetable Soup
This classic German soup is a comforting blend of tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, potatoes, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (1 hour simmering time)
German Tomato Soup with Dumplings
A hearty and comforting German-inspired soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the warmth of homemade dumplings.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups dumpling mixture (see below)
Dumpling Mixture:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
2. Add chopped tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
4. Meanwhile, prepare dumpling mixture by combining flour, egg, water, and salt in a bowl. Mix until smooth.
5. Drop dumpling mixture into the hot soup, covering surface (about 6-8 dumplings). Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
German Onion Soup with Cheese Croutons
This hearty soup combines caramelized onions, beef broth, and rich cheese croutons to create a comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings. With its deep flavors and crispy toppings, it’s a German classic that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
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 beef broth and bring to a simmer.
3. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Toss breadcrumbs with grated Gruyère cheese. Place on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Ladle the soup into bowls and top each bowl with toasted cheese croutons.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
German Pumpkin Soup with Nutmeg
Warm up with a comforting bowl of German-inspired pumpkin soup, infused with the warmth of nutmeg.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
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, flour, and nutmeg. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
5. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the soup.
6. If desired, stir in heavy cream to add richness.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Sausage and Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a staple of German cuisine, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. With the rich flavors of sausage, beans, and vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb German sausage (such as Bratwurst or Knockwurst), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the soaked and drained navy beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes or until the beans are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
German Cauliflower Soup with Caraway
This creamy and comforting soup is a classic German recipe that showcases the humble cauliflower as the star of the show, complemented by the warm, slightly bitter flavor of caraway seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower, broken into florets
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 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 cauliflower and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until cauliflower is tender, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half and caraway seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional caraway seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
German Asparagus Soup with Cream
A creamy and comforting soup that celebrates the sweetness of asparagus, this German-inspired recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 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 cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and asparagus; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the asparagus is tender.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has reduced slightly.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
German Red Wine Soup with Bread
German Red Wine Soup with Bread Recipe
Cozy up with this hearty German-inspired soup, featuring rich red wine and crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of beef broth
– 1 cup of red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 teaspoon of tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of crusty bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
4. Slice the bread into thick slabs and toast until crispy.
5. Serve the warm soup with toasted bread on the side.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
German Herb Soup with Fresh Parsley
Warm up with a flavorful and comforting German-inspired soup that combines fresh parsley, herbs, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, add thyme and parsley; simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German Barley Soup with Smoked Meat
Warm up with a hearty bowl of German Barley Soup, infused with the rich flavors of smoked meat and comforting barley. This traditional soup is a staple of German cuisine, perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Knockwurst or Bratwurst), sliced
– 2 cups pearl barley, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the sliced smoked sausage, pearl barley, chicken broth, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the barley is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 18 hearty German soup recipes! From classic potato to creamy mushroom, and from traditional lentil to beer-infused cheese, there’s something for everyone. These comforting soups are perfect for a chilly evening or as a warm-up on a cold day. With ingredients like sausage, bacon, and smoked meat, you’ll be transported to the heart of Germany with each spoonful. Try German Split Pea Soup with Sausage, Bavarian Creamy Leek Soup, or Hearty German Beef and Vegetable Soup for a taste of authentic German cuisine.
