Dill Pickle Soup

### Instructions

**Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics**
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant.

**Step 2: Cook the Potatoes**
1. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the dill pickle juice. Stir everything together.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
4. Let the soup cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

**Step 3: Add the Pickles & Seasonings**
1. Once the potatoes are cooked, add the chopped dill pickles, dried or fresh dill, salt, and black pepper to the soup.
2. Stir well, and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

**Step 4: Blend the Soup (Optional)**
1. For a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some of the potatoes intact for a chunky texture. Alternatively, you can transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and pulse until smooth.
2. If you prefer a completely smooth soup, blend it all the way.

**Step 5: Add the Cream**
1. Pour in the heavy cream or milk, stirring to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
2. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or pickle juice to suit your preferences.

**Step 6: Serve and Garnish**
1. Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh dill, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of crumbled bacon for added flavor and texture.
2. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for the perfect meal.

### Tips and Variations

– **Vegan Version**: To make this soup vegan, simply substitute the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative and use vegetable broth.
– **Extra Pickle Flavor**: If you want a more intense pickle flavor, add more chopped pickles or a bit more pickle juice. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
– **Spicy Twist**: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick to balance the tanginess of the pickles.
– **Make It Chunky**: If you prefer a chunkier texture, leave the soup unblended or only partially blended to preserve the potato pieces.

### Why You Should Try Dill Pickle Soup

Dill Pickle Soup might sound unconventional at first, but its creamy, tangy, and savory flavor profile is a delightful surprise that will make you fall in love with it. It’s an easy-to-make, comforting dish that packs a punch of flavor while still being hearty enough to be a satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side, a main dish, or as a conversation starter at your next dinner party, Dill Pickle Soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Perfect for pickle lovers and those looking to try something new, this soup is an exciting twist on classic comfort food.