Peel and cut potatoes into 1/2-inch cubes, then set aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning. Dice the onion, mince the garlic cloves, slice carrots into 1/4-inch rounds, peel and dice celery root into 1/2-inch pieces, and slice leeks into 1/2-inch rounds (use white and light green parts). Chop the fresh parsley just before serving to retain its brightness. While prepping vegetables, cut bacon into 1-inch pieces and fry in a large pot over medium-high heat until crispy and browned, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and reserve on a paper towel, leaving approximately 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.

Add the diced onion to the pot with the reserved bacon fat and sauté over medium heat for 5 minutes until softened and translucent, stirring occasionally. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step develops the foundational flavors that will anchor the entire soup.

Add the drained potatoes, carrots, celery root, leeks, diced tomatoes, and vegetable stock to the pot. Stir in the thyme, rosemary, marjoram, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. I like using quality stock with Better Than Bouillon because it adds depth to the broth that makes the whole soup taste more intentional and delicious.

Simmer the covered soup on low heat for 40 minutes until the potatoes are completely tender and break apart easily with a spoon, and the carrots and celery root are soft. The long, gentle simmer allows all the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to release their starches, naturally thickening the broth. Check halfway through to ensure the soup isn't sticking to the bottom of the pot, stirring occasionally.

Stir the reserved cooked bacon from Step 1 back into the soup and remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with the freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with extra crispy bacon pieces on top if desired for added texture and flavor.