Here are the step-by-step instructions for creating the Classic Kartoffelsuppe:

Classic Kartoffelsuppe (Potato Soup)

1. Prep Vegetables: Peel and dice the potatoes, carrots, and celery. Chop the onion.
2. Sauté Onion: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced potatoes, carrots, and celery. Cook for a few minutes to soften them.
4. Add Broth: Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to simmer for about 20-30 minutes until potatoes are tender.
5. Blend Soup: Use an immersion blender to purée the soup until smooth. If desired, leave some chunks for texture.
6. Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with chopped chives or parsley.

Gulaschsuppe (Goulash Soup)

1. Sauté Meat: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot. Add cubed beef and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Cook Onions: In the same pot, add chopped onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are soft.
3. Spices: Add the paprika and caraway seeds, stirring to combine.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the browned beef back into the pot with the red bell peppers, diced potatoes, and beef broth.
5. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 1.5 hours, until the beef is tender.
6. Final Seasoning: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
7. Serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.