Creamy Dreamy Potato Soup (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Base

01 - 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
02 - 1 medium onion, chopped
03 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 4 cups vegetable broth

→ Creaminess

05 - 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
06 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

→ Seasonings

07 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
08 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 - Salt and pepper to taste
10 - 4 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter

→ Garnish

11 - Extra shredded cheddar cheese
12 - Fresh chives or parsley, chopped
13 - Smoked paprika for sprinkling

# Instructions:

01 - In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
02 - Add the diced potatoes to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, and stir in the thyme and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
03 - Using an immersion blender, blend the soup until smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half of the soup and leave the other half as is. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup to a stand blender in batches.
04 - Stir in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook on low heat for another 5 minutes while stirring until the cheese has melted and the soup is warmed through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
05 - Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with extra cheese, chopped chives or parsley, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra touch.

# Notes:

01 - For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream with additional vegetable broth.
02 - This soup thickens as it cools. Add more broth when reheating if needed.