A classic, creamy potato leek soup made with Yukon Gold potatoes, fresh thyme, and leeks, blended smooth and finished with cream.
Servings 6servings
Course Soup
Cuisine European, French
Ingredients
3tablespoonsunsalted butter
4largeleeks, white and light green parts only, choppedabout 5 cups
3clovesgarlic, peeled and smashed
2poundsYukon Gold potatoes, peeled and choppedcut into 1/2-inch pieces
7cupslow sodium chicken or vegetable broth
2bay leaves
3sprigsfresh thyme
1teaspoonsalt
1/4teaspoonground black pepper
1cupheavy cream
chives, finely choppedfor serving
Method
Melt the butter over medium heat in a large soup pot. Add the leeks and garlic and cook, stirring regularly, until soft and wilted, about 10 minutes. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid browning.
Add the potatoes, broth, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are very soft.
Remove and discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Puree the soup with an immersion blender until smooth, or carefully blend in batches in a countertop blender.
Stir in the heavy cream and return the soup to a gentle simmer. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If the soup is too thick, thin with water or broth.
Serve hot, garnished with finely chopped chives if desired.
Blender safety: if using a countertop blender, do not fill more than halfway. Leave the lid vent open and cover loosely with a towel to allow steam to escape. Freezer-friendly: freeze without the cream for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat gently, then add cream before serving.