Description
This Simple Potato Leek Soup is a comforting, creamy, and easy-to-make recipe that highlights the delicate flavor of leeks combined with hearty russet potatoes. Perfect as a light lunch or starter, it’s made with basic ingredients, cooked gently on the stovetop, and can be easily customized for vegetarian preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3–4 medium-to-large leeks (white parts only), sliced
- 2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Broth
- 4 cups chicken broth or stock (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 cup water
Seasoning & Fats
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt or to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the leeks: Clean the leeks thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Use only the white parts, slice them thinly.
- Sauté the leeks and garlic: In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced leeks and minced garlic, cooking gently until softened but not browned—about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add potatoes and seasonings: Add the diced potatoes to the pot along with dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and water. Stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently until the potatoes are very tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Blend the soup: Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer to a blender in batches and blend.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of cream.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, substitute butter with olive oil or add a splash of cream after blending.
- This soup can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- Washing leeks thoroughly is essential to prevent grit in your soup.
- You can use vegetable broth to make this soup vegetarian.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, blend only half the soup and mix the rest in as is.
Keywords: potato leek soup, simple soup recipe, creamy potato soup, leek soup, vegetarian soup, comfort food