Leek and Potato Soup
User Reviews
5
Leek and Potato Soup
Description
This Leek and Potato Soup begins with thinly sliced leeks sautéed in butter and olive oil until softened but not browned, a process called "sweating," which gently draws out sweetness without caramelization. Peeled and chopped potatoes are added along with broth, and the mixture simmers until the potatoes are tender.
The cooked ingredients are then blended, either with an immersion blender for a more textured result or in a blender for a smoother, more refined soup. Additional broth or dairy such as milk or cream can be added to adjust thickness. The seasoning with salt and white pepper keeps the flavor subtle, highlighting the fresh vegetable components.
This soup suits a light starter or a warming lunch. It pairs well with crusty bread or can be garnished with herbs for added brightness. Its simple ingredient list and gentle cooking methods focus on producing a clean, delicate flavor and creamy texture.
Ingredients
- 1 leek cleaned and sliced thinly. (see notes)
- 2 pounds potato peeled and chopped
- 2 Tablespoons butter unsalted
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 2 quarts chicken broth or vegetable broth for vegetarian
- white pepper to taste
- salt (I like Redmond's Real salt)
Instructions
- In a large stock pan, heat butter and olive oil over a medium heat. Sauté leeks 3 or 4 minutes. Then cover, reduce heat to medium low, and "sweat" for an additional 5 minutes. When you "sweat" onions, you are letting them cook and soften, rather than caramelize and brown.
- Add the chopped potatoes and chicken broth.
- Cover and cook until the potatoes are soft when you poke a fork into them, about 20 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender or puree the soup in batches in a blender. (See notes) If you use an immersion blender, you'll get a chunkier, more rustic soup. Or puree it in a blender, for a more elegant soup.
- If it's too thick, add more chicken broth or some milk or cream.
- Season with salt and white pepper.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 162 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving | |
| Calories | 162kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 22g | 7% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 7g | 11% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 8mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 875mg | 36% |
| Potassium | 687mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 273IU | 5% |
| Vitamin C | 40mg | 44% |
| Calcium | 34mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.