Potato and Leek Soup
Leek and potato soup is one of those recipes that makes you wonder why anyone buys soup from a shop. Two leeks, a couple of potatoes and some stock and you have four generous bowls of something silky and warming for 50p a portion. It is the quintessential British comfort food – cheap, warming and genuinely good. Make a big batch on a Sunday and you have lunch sorted for the week.
Potato and Leek Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and diced onion. Cook gently for 8-10 minutes until soft and sweet - do not let them brown.
- Add the diced potatoes and stir to coat in the butter.
- Pour in the stock, bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
- Remove from the heat and blend with a hand blender until smooth. You can leave it slightly chunky if you prefer.
- Stir in the milk and season with salt and white pepper. Heat through gently without boiling.
- Serve in warm bowls with a sprinkle of chives and some crusty bread.
Tips and Variations
Blend half the soup and leave the rest chunky for a more textured result. Frozen leeks work well if fresh ones are expensive. This freezes brilliantly for up to 2 months. Add a dollop of creme fraiche or a swirl of olive oil on top for serving.
