Classic Potato and Leek Soup

Ingredients

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced (about 600g) 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced (about 600g)
• 3 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced (about 300g) 3 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced (about 300g)
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish Fresh chives, chopped, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 38g, 6g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, combine the diced potatoes, sliced leeks, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
3. 3.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth and creamy.
4. 4.
   Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. 5.
   Heat the soup over low heat until warmed through, or refrigerate for at least 2 hours if serving chilled.
6. 6.
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chives. Serve hot or chilled.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Make sure to dice the potatoes into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Leeks — Thoroughly wash the leeks to remove any dirt or sand trapped between the layers.
• Vegetable broth — Use a high-quality vegetable broth or make your own for the best flavor.
• Heavy cream — For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream.
• Fresh chives — Finely chop the chives just before serving to preserve their vibrant color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoother texture, strain the soup through a fine-mesh sieve after blending.
• Add a splash of white wine while simmering the potatoes and leeks for an extra layer of flavor.
• Garnish with crispy bacon or croutons for added texture and flavor.
• Serve the soup with a side of crusty French bread for a complete meal.
• Experiment with different herbs such as thyme or parsley to customize the flavor profile.

Serving advice

Serve the potato and leek soup in elegant bowls or small cups for a sophisticated presentation. Accompany it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a satisfying meal.

Presentation advice

To elevate the presentation, drizzle a swirl of cream on top of the soup and sprinkle some chopped chives over it. Serve the soup in a shallow bowl to showcase its creamy texture and vibrant green color.