Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3 large leeks (cleaned and chopped, white and light green parts only)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and chopped)
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Finishing Touches
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup sliced chives or green onions
Instructions
- Sauté the leeks: Heat a large pot to just below medium heat and melt the butter. Add the chopped leeks along with a pinch of salt. Cook them gently for about 7-10 minutes until they soften. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add potatoes and wine: Stir in the peeled and chopped Yukon Gold potatoes, mixing well with the softened leeks. Pour in the dry white wine and cook for about 3 minutes until the wine mostly evaporates.
- Simmer the soup: Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and add dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and partially cover the pot. Let it simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, approximately 20-25 minutes.
- Puree the soup: Use an immersion blender directly in the pot, or carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender, and blend until smooth and creamy.
- Add cream and cheese: Return the pureed soup to the pot if needed. Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese. Simmer gently for 5-10 minutes until the soup thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
- Season and serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sliced chives or green onions for freshness.
Notes
- Be sure to clean the leeks thoroughly to remove any grit or dirt hidden between the layers.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth.
- For a richer soup, use a full-fat heavy cream.
- This soup can be prepared in advance and refrigerated; reheat gently on the stove before serving.
- Leftover soup freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Low Salt