As I stirred the pot, the fragrant aroma of fresh dill filled my kitchen, transporting me straight to a charming little café in Poland. Today, I’m thrilled to share my beloved recipe for Creamy Polish Dill Soup—an easy and heartwarming dish that feels like home in a bowl. With earthy potatoes and vibrant carrots, this vegetarian delight is not just a quick meal ready in about 35 minutes; it’s a creamy hug for your soul after a long day. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this soup is great for busy weeknights when you crave something comforting yet nutritious. Are you ready to whip up a batch and experience a taste of Poland?
Why is Polish Dill Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting and Cozy: This creamy Polish Dill Soup wraps you in a blanket of warmth, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 35 minutes, you can whip this up on busy weeknights without breaking a sweat.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Packed with wholesome ingredients like potatoes and carrots, it satisfies both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
Flavorful Delight: The fresh dill coupled with aromatic spices creates a deliciously vibrant soup that will tantalize your taste buds.
Versatile Dish: Pair it with crusty bread or fresh salad for a well-rounded meal, just like how you would with my Bok Choy Soup or Dill Pickle Tuna.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s family dinner or a gathering with friends, everyone will come back for seconds!
Polish Dill Soup Ingredients
For the Soup
• Butter – Adds richness and helps soften onion and garlic. Substitution: Vegetable oil can also be used.
• Brown Onion – Provides a base flavor. Finely chopped for even cooking.
• Garlic Cloves – Enhances the soup with aromatic flavor. Minced for quick release of flavor.
• Carrots – Adds sweetness and texture. Peeled and diced for uniform cooking.
• Scallions – Offers a mild onion flavor. Can be substituted with leeks for a different taste.
• Salt – Enhances all other flavors. Essential for seasoning the broth.
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth and depth. Freshly ground is preferable.
• Dried Marjoram – Brings a herby flavor profile. Substitute with thyme or oregano if unavailable.
• Ground Turmeric – Provides color and a slight earthiness. Used for visual appeal as well as flavor.
• Ground Nutmeg – Adds a warm, nutty flavor that complements the soup. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering other flavors.
• Bay Leaf – Infuses the soup with subtle herbal notes. Remove before serving.
• Waxy Potatoes – Gives body and creaminess. Diced into even pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Frozen Green Peas – Introduces color and sweetness. Added near the end for fresh flavor.
• Chicken Broth – Forms the soup base, enriching the overall flavor. Homemade is best, but store-bought works too.
• Full Fat Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang. Must be at room temperature before mixing in to prevent splitting.
• Fresh Dill – Essential for the signature flavor of the soup. Use generously, and reserve some for garnish.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Polish Dill Soup
Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin by peeling and dicing the waxy potatoes and carrots into uniform pieces for even cooking. Finely chop the brown onion, mince the garlic, and slice the scallions. Finally, wash and roughly chop the fresh dill, reserving some for garnish later. This step takes about 10 minutes and ensures your Polish Dill Soup comes together seamlessly.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Once it’s shimmering, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant and translucent. This will create a flavorful base for your soup, making your kitchen smell delightful as the aroma of the sautéed aromatics fills the air.
Step 3: Cook Vegetables
Add the diced carrots and scallions to the pot, stirring and cooking for an additional 2 minutes. This brief cooking time allows the vegetables to soften slightly while integrating their flavors into the base of the Polish Dill Soup. The bright colors will begin to pop against the golden backdrop of the onions and garlic.
Step 4: Season
Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, freshly ground black pepper, dried marjoram, ground turmeric, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Toss in a bay leaf as well. Keep stirring for about 30 seconds to a minute to toast the spices slightly, enhancing their flavors. Your soup is starting to take shape with these aromatic additions!
Step 5: Add Broth and Potatoes
Incorporate the diced potatoes and frozen green peas into the pot. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and give it a good stir. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. The combined scents will be irresistible!
Step 6: Stir in Cream
Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Add the full-fat sour cream, ensuring it’s at room temperature, while stirring continuously until well combined. Then, add 3 tablespoons of the chopped fresh dill. Place the pot back on the heat and cook uncovered for another 5 minutes, adjusting seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the creamy Polish Dill Soup into bowls and garnish with the remaining fresh dill for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for a satisfying meal. Take a moment to appreciate this comforting bowl, ready to bring warmth and joy to your dining table!
How to Store and Freeze Polish Dill Soup
Fridge: Store your creamy Polish Dill Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore its creaminess.
Freezer: To freeze, transfer cooled soup to a freezer-safe container and seal tightly. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat over low heat.
Adding Cream: For the best texture, reserve the sour cream until reheating. Stir it in just before serving to maintain that velvety consistency.
Avoid Overfilling: If freezing, allow space at the top of the container for expansion as the soup freezes, preventing spills and ensuring perfect portions when you go to enjoy your comforting bowl later!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Creamy Polish Dill Soup in advance is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance; just remember to store the diced potatoes in cold water to prevent browning. The soup itself can be cooked and refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to maintain creaminess, and stir in fresh dill right before serving to preserve its vibrant flavor. Simply heat it on the stove until warmed through, and you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal ready in no time!
Polish Dill Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to experiment and make this Polish Dill Soup your own with these delightful variations!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular chicken broth with gluten-free broth and ensure any added pasta is gluten-free.
- Creamy Vegan Option: Swap sour cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a rich, dairy-free version.
- Extra Protein: Toss in some cooked lentils or chickpeas to give your soup a hearty boost packed with plant protein.
- Flavor Kick: For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
- Herby Medley: Enhance the flavor by mixing in fresh herbs like parsley or chives along with the dill for added freshness.
- Vegetable Variety: Mix in additional vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to amp up the nutrition and texture.
- Cheesy Creaminess: Stir in a handful of grated cheese at the end for a rich, cheesy finish that adds a delightful depth of flavor.
As you can see, creating your perfect bowl of Polish Dill Soup is all about personalizing it to feed your soul. And if you’re looking for more comforting soups, consider trying my Spicy Lemongrass Coconut Noodle Soup for heat or my Bell Chicken Quesadilla for that cheesy goodness! Each variation opens the door to a world of flavors, so let your creativity shine!
Expert Tips for Polish Dill Soup
- Room Temperature Cream: Make sure the sour cream is at room temperature to prevent curdling when mixed into the hot soup, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste the soup before serving to adjust seasoning. You may prefer to add a bit more salt or fresh dill to enhance the flavors.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer properly is crucial for the potatoes to become tender and for the flavors to meld perfectly in the Polish Dill Soup.
- Optimize Veggie Sizes: Cut potatoes and carrots into similar sizes for even cooking, preventing some pieces from being mushy while others remain firm.
- Garnish Generously: Reserve some fresh dill for garnishing; it adds a burst of color and enhances that signature flavor, making your soup even more inviting!
- Customize as Desired: Feel free to substitute ingredients, like using leeks instead of scallions, or adding additional veggies; just keep the essence of Polish Dill Soup alive!
What to Serve with Creamy Polish Dill Soup
As you savor each spoonful of this delightful soup, consider these complementary dishes to elevate your meal experience.
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Crusty Bread: The perfect vehicle for slurping up every creamy drop, providing a satisfying crunch that balances the soup’s velvety texture.
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Fresh Salad: A crisp, colorful blend of greens with a tangy vinaigrette adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
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Garlic Bread: The aromatic garlic complements the dill’s freshness while the buttery goodness melts in your mouth, making each bite irresistibly delicious.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection lend a nutty flavor that enhances the comforting nature of the Polish Dill Soup.
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Cheese Bites: A platter of assorted cheeses—think sharp cheddar or creamy brie—brings a savory touch that balances the dish’s creaminess beautifully.
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Pickled Cucumbers: These tangy bites add delightful acidity, awakening the palate and elevating the overall flavor profile of your meal.
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Sparkling Water: A sparkling drink perks you up and cleanses your palate, making every delightful taste stand out.
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Light White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully, offering a refreshing counterbalance to the soup’s warmth.
Polish Dill Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my potatoes are ripe and ready for use?
Absolutely! Look for waxy potatoes that are firm and smooth, without any dark spots or blemishes. Opt for ones that feel heavy for their size, as they contain more moisture, ensuring a creamier texture in your soup.
What is the best way to store leftover Polish Dill Soup?
Refrigerate your creamy Polish Dill Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to restore its creamy texture. Always taste and adjust the seasoning, as flavors can mellow in storage.
Can I freeze Polish Dill Soup?
Yes! To freeze, first let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Seal tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat over low heat, adding sour cream just before serving for the best texture.
What should I do if my soup is too thick?
Very! If your Polish Dill Soup turns out thicker than desired, simply stir in a bit of chicken broth or water until you reach your preferred consistency. Heat it gently on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Are there any dietary considerations for Polish Dill Soup?
Absolutely! This soup is vegetarian-friendly; however, if you’re serving it to someone with dairy allergies, you can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or a coconut yogurt. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they’re free of allergens.
How can I customize this soup further?
The more the merrier! Consider adding additional vegetables like celery root or chopped broccoli to enhance nutrition. If you’d like some protein, small meatballs or pieces of cooked sausage can be stirred in. Just remember to balance flavors so the dill remains the star of this comforting dish!
Creamy Polish Dill Soup: A Cozy Bowl of Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by peeling and dicing the waxy potatoes and carrots into uniform pieces for even cooking. Finely chop the brown onion, mince the garlic, and slice the scallions. Finally, wash and roughly chop the fresh dill, reserving some for garnish later.
- In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the diced carrots and scallions to the pot, stirring and cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt, freshly ground black pepper, dried marjoram, ground turmeric, and a pinch of ground nutmeg. Toss in a bay leaf as well.
- Incorporate the diced potatoes and frozen green peas into the pot. Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and stir. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Remove the pot from the heat and add the full-fat sour cream, ensuring it's at room temperature. Stir continuously until well combined, then add 3 tablespoons of the chopped fresh dill.
- Ladle the creamy Polish Dill Soup into bowls and garnish with the remaining fresh dill. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.
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