Lagniappe - Potatoes

Photo courtesy of www.bbcfood.com

I am so a potato loving girl. I love them baked, mashed, fried, roasted. You name a potato dish I bet you I will love it. But have you ever found yourself with a ton of potatoes and your not sure what to do with all of them. I rarely find a way not to use a potato because I love them so, but sometimes I do want something a little different.

Well, you can make a meal out of all those leftover potatoes - believe it - no meat involved. Warm potato soup with some sharp cheddar shredded on top on a chilly day with a green salad will hit the spot - I guarantee it and this recipe is SO easy!

Gigi's Potato Soup
This recipe comes from Doug's grandmother - who is an excellent cook and has shared so many great recipes and entertaining tips with me.

8-10 large red potatoes peeled and chopped (you can really use any potato) or your whole bag - depends on how many you are trying to feed. I usually figure 2-3 large potatoes per person with a couple extra thrown in.

Cover potatoes with water (I add a little salt) and boil until potatoes are fork tender.

(Important step here) Drain potatoes, but reserve the liquid they were boiled in. Set liquid aside and place potatoes in a bowl.

Mix/Mash with a mixer and add a 1/2 stick of butter (more if you like lots of butter) and a splash of milk (you have made mashed potatoes here). Mix until smooth. Salt and pepper to taste.

Now take your liquid and gradually add to potatoes while mixing (I normally put a fourth in at a time, mix until the liquid is incorporated, and repeat). You may not need all the liquid so you will add it until you get the "soup" to the consistency you like - just check it (or in my case taste it) with a spoon.

Garnish with scallions and/or shredded cheddar cheese. Serve immediately!

This is really so easy, cheap, and takes very little preparation. I hope you enjoy!