Creamy Leek Soup (Printer-friendly)
Enjoy a velvety, comforting soup featuring tender leeks, potatoes, and cream. Ideal for a cozy meal any time of year.
# What You'll Need:
→ Vegetables
01 - 3 large leeks (white and light green parts only), cleaned and thinly sliced
02 - 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
03 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Liquids
05 - 4 cups vegetable broth
06 - 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
→ Fats
07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
→ Seasonings
08 - 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
10 - Pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
→ Garnish (optional)
11 - Chopped fresh chives or parsley
# How to Prepare:
01 - Melt the unsalted butter in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and chopped onion; cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until they are softened and translucent but not browned.
02 - Add the minced garlic to the pot and continue to cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
03 - Stir in the diced potatoes and pour in the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender and easily pierced with a fork.
04 - Remove the pot from the heat. Carefully use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until completely smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender and blend until smooth, returning it to the pot afterward.
05 - Return the pureed soup to low heat. Stir in the whole milk or heavy cream, along with the salt, black pepper, and optional nutmeg. Heat gently until the soup is warmed through, ensuring it does not come to a boil.
06 - Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle the creamy leek soup into individual bowls and garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley, if desired, before serving hot.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- It's like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chasing away those grey, gloomy days.
- You'll be amazed at how simple ingredients can transform into something so incredibly elegant and flavorful.
02 -
- Thoroughly washing your leeks is non-negotiable; gritty soup is not the culinary experience we're aiming for.
- Don't be tempted to skip the nutmeg; it truly elevates the dish from good to exceptional.
03 -
- When cleaning leeks, slice them lengthwise and rinse thoroughly under running water, fanning out the layers to dislodge any hidden dirt.
- For an even creamier result without additional dairy, a small dollop of crème fraîche swirled in just before serving is absolutely divine.