Polish Dill Soup

Polish Dill Soup is the kind of comforting, everyday dish that feels both nourishing and quietly special. Warm, creamy, and gently aromatic, it’s the soup you make when you want something hearty but not heavy, familiar yet full of character. With tender potatoes, sweet carrots, and a generous handful of fresh dill, this classic-style soup fits perfectly into a cozy lunch, a lighter dinner, or a calm moment at the end of a busy day. Simple ingredients come together to create a bowl that’s soothing, satisfying, and deeply comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and hearty without feeling heavy
• Made with simple, affordable pantry ingredients
• Naturally flavorful thanks to dill, marjoram, and warming spices
• Perfect for lunch, light dinner, or meal prep

Ingredients

• Unsalted butter (1 tbsp) – Adds richness and a smooth base for sautéing
• Brown onion, finely chopped (1) – Builds depth and gentle sweetness
• Garlic cloves, minced (2) – Enhances aroma and savory flavor
• Carrots, peeled and diced (3) – Add sweetness, color, and texture
• Scallions, chopped (2) – Bring mild onion flavor without overpowering
• Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances and balances all ingredients
• Black pepper (1 tsp) – Adds subtle warmth and seasoning
• Dried marjoram (1 tsp) – Traditional herb that adds earthy, herbal notes
• Ground turmeric (¼ tsp) – Provides gentle warmth and color
• Ground nutmeg (¼ tsp) – Adds cozy depth and subtle sweetness
• Bay leaf (1) – Infuses the broth with gentle aromatic flavor
• Waxy potatoes, diced (3, about 10 oz) – Make the soup filling and hearty
• Frozen green peas (½ cup) – Add freshness and light sweetness
• Chicken broth (4 cups) – Creates a savory, comforting base
• Full-fat sour cream, room temperature (4 tbsp) – Adds creaminess and tang
• Fresh dill, chopped (4 tbsp, divided) – The star ingredient, fresh and fragrant

How to Make Polish Dill Soup

Prep the Ingredients

Before cooking, peel and dice the potatoes and carrots. Chop the white and light green parts of the scallions. Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and chop the fresh dill. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.

Build the Flavor Base

Heat the butter over medium-low heat in a large pot. Add the onion and garlic and cook for about 1 minute until softened and fragrant. Add the carrots and scallions and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring gently. Stir in the salt, pepper, marjoram, turmeric, nutmeg, and bay leaf, allowing the spices to bloom in the butter.

Simmer the Soup

Add the diced potatoes and green peas, then pour in the chicken broth. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Finish with Cream and Dill

Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Add 3 tablespoons of chopped dill and cook uncovered for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Tips for Success

• Use full-fat sour cream for the creamiest texture
• Bring the sour cream to room temperature to prevent curdling
• Add dill near the end to preserve its fresh flavor
• Cut vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula

If you don’t have a Dutch oven, any heavy-bottomed pot will work well.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian version: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth
• Extra creamy: Add an additional tablespoon of sour cream or a splash of cream
• Protein boost: Stir in shredded chicken or white beans
• Rustic style: Mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot for a thicker texture

Serving Suggestions

Serve Polish dill soup hot, topped with the remaining fresh dill. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, rye toast, or a simple side salad. For a traditional touch, enjoy it with a slice of buttered bread on the side.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze Polish dill soup?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the sour cream and add it after reheating.

What type of potatoes work best?
Waxy potatoes hold their shape well and are ideal for this soup.

Can I use dried dill instead of fresh?
Fresh dill is highly recommended, but you can use 1 tablespoon dried dill in a pinch.

Is this soup very filling?
Yes, thanks to the potatoes and carrots, it’s hearty enough for a light dinner.

Final Thoughts

Polish Dill Soup is a beautiful example of how simple ingredients can create something truly comforting. Creamy, fragrant, and gently spiced, it’s a recipe that invites you to slow down and enjoy the moment. Whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy bowl of soup, this easy homemade Polish dill soup is always a good idea. Try it once, and it may just become a regular favorite in your kitchen.

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