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Classic Creamy Potato Leek Soup

Close-up of a white bowl filled with smooth, pale green Creamy Potato Leek Soup.

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Follow these steps to make a rich and creamy potato leek soup on the stovetop. This recipe focuses on properly preparing the leeks for the best flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 large leeks, white and light green parts only
  • 1 pound Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Clean the leeks: Slice the leeks lengthwise. Place them under cool running water and gently separate the layers to wash away any trapped dirt. Slice the cleaned leeks thinly.
  2. Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  3. Add the sliced leeks to the pot. Sauté them gently for 8 to 10 minutes until they are soft and translucent. Do not let them brown.
  4. Add the diced potatoes and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are very tender.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat. Use an immersion blender to blend the soup until completely smooth and creamy. Alternatively, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
  6. Stir in the milk or cream, salt, and pepper. Heat the soup gently over low heat until warmed through. Do not boil after adding the dairy.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk or cream with 1 cup of full-fat canned coconut milk or unsweetened cashew milk.
  • If you prefer a thicker soup, use slightly less broth or simmer uncovered for the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • Garnish with fresh chopped chives or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

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