Creamy Leek and Potato Soup

"This creamy soup soothes the soul."

This soup is so simple with just a few ingredients but has such a complex taste.  Leek are very easy to work with, the trick is to clean them properly.  I have included instructions at the bottom of the page on how to clean leeks if you have never worked with them before.  Since this soup is mostly chicken stock with just a little cream it is healthy as well.  I also like the fact that I whipped this up in about 30 minutes.  If you are watching your weight, you could omit the cream since the pureed soup has a nice creamy texture due to the starch in the potatoes.  Please try this one - it is truly simple and gourmet. 

Creamy Leek and Potato Soup

2 leeks, cleaned well and cut into thin slices
4 to 5 potatoes, peeled and diced
1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp. butter
salt and pepper to taste
1 quart of chicken stock
1/2 C. heavy cream

In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle the olive oil and add the butter.  Add the leeks and cook until they become soft.  Season with salt and pepper.  Add the diced potatoes and toss to coat.  Pour in the chicken stock and cover with a lid, reducing the heat low.  Simmer for about 20 minutes or until the potatoes are soft. 

Puree the soup to a smooth consistency with an immersion blender or laddle into a blender.  If you use a blender, please make sure you leave the top open since the soup is hot and the steam could build.  You can cover with a clean towel if it tries to escape out of the top opening.  You will have to do this in batches if you are using a blender. 

Pour the pureed soup back into the pot and add the heavy cream over a low heat.  Do not bring this to a boil since the cream will curdle.  Garnish with chives, if desired, and serve immediately. 

How to clean leeks:  First cut off the bright green leaves since they are too tough to eat.  Place the leeks on a cutting board and make a cut down the center almost to the root but leaving it intact.  Fill a sink with cold water and fan the leeks open while swishing in the water.  This will remove any dirt or grit that gets trapped in the layers.