Description
This Creamy Potato and Leek Soup is a comforting and velvety classic, perfect for a cozy meal. Made with tender leeks, smooth potatoes, and a rich blend of cream and herbs, this soup offers a delicate balance of flavors and a luxurious texture that warms you from the inside out. Ideal for a simple lunch or elegant starter, it’s easy to prepare and wonderfully satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 large leeks (white and light green parts only, sliced and cleaned)
- 4 medium-sized Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and cubed)
Dairy & Fats
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
Liquids & Broth
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Herbs & Spices
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and white pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Chives
- Croutons
- A drizzle of olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté Leeks: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and cook them gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until they are soft, fragrant, and translucent but not browned.
- Add Potatoes: Add the peeled and cubed potatoes to the pot with the softened leeks. Stir well to coat the potatoes in the buttery leek mixture.
- Cook in Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth along with the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Blend the Soup: Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a stand blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Finish and Season: Stir in the heavy cream to enrich the soup. Season with salt and white pepper to taste. Heat gently if needed, but avoid boiling after adding the cream to maintain its smooth texture.
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative.
- Use white pepper instead of black pepper for a cleaner appearance and subtle spice.
- Ensure leeks are well cleaned, as they can contain dirt between layers.
- This soup can be made ahead and reheated gently; it thickens upon standing, so add a little broth or water when reheating if necessary.
- Garnish with chopped chives, crunchy croutons, or a drizzle of olive oil for added texture and flavor.
