Colombian Potato Soup, known as Caldo de Papa, is a traditional comfort food widely enjoyed in the Andean regions of Colombia, including Boyacá, Cundinamarca, and Bogotá. Made with potatoes, green onions, cilantro, and a flavorful broth, it showcases the simplicity and richness of Colombian home cooking.
It is especially popular as a breakfast dish during cold mornings and is often served with bread, arepas, or eggs. Its comforting nature and simple ingredients have made it a staple in Colombian households for generations.
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Colombian Potato Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 5
- Category: Soup
- Cuisine: Colombian
Ingredients
- 800 g sabanera potatoes
- 150 g cebolla larga (long green onion)
- 15 g fresh cilantro
- 2 liters water (8 cups)
- 15 g salt
- 3 g black pepper
Preparation
- Make the broth. Put the water in a large pot with half of the cebolla larga (long green onion), the salt, and the pepper and bring to a boil. While it heats, peel and cut the potatoes into chunks and chop the rest of the cebolla larga and the cilantro.
- Cook the potatoes. When the water boils, add the potatoes and cook for 30 to 35 minutes, until they are very tender and some begin to break down, which gives the broth body.
- Finish and serve. Add the rest of the cebolla larga and cook 5 minutes more. Remove from the heat, stir in the cilantro, and serve the soup hot, with plenty of potato in each bowl.
Chef’s Tips
- Use starchy potatoes for the most authentic texture.
- Avoid excessive stirring to prevent all the potatoes from breaking down.
- Add cilantro at the end to preserve its fresh aroma.
- Mash a few potatoes in the pot if you prefer a thicker soup.
Traditional Variations
- Many regions serve it with poached eggs cooked directly in the broth.
- Some families add beef ribs for a richer flavor.
- A small amount of milk is sometimes stirred in before serving.
Traditional Serving Method
Serve piping hot for breakfast with white arepas, rustic bread, or Colombian cheese bread. Traditional beverages include hot chocolate, Colombian coffee, and panela drink.
Recommended Side Dishes
- White arepas
- Rustic country bread
- Almojábana cheese bread
- Hot chocolate
- Colombian coffee
Did You Know?
Caldo de Papa is one of the most traditional breakfasts in Colombia’s colder regions. For generations, it has provided warmth and nourishment before the start of a busy day.
Many Colombian families have their own treasured version of the recipe passed down through generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sabanera potatoes are preferred because they release starch and create the creamy texture associated with traditional caldo de papa.
Yes. Beef ribs and chicken are common additions that create a richer broth.
Yes. It reheats well and often tastes even better after the flavors have had time to develop.
The broken potatoes naturally thicken the broth and create the classic texture of the dish.
