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Easy Homemade Potato Leek Soup on the Stove

When the weather turns chilly and the days get shorter, there’s nothing quite so comforting as a warm bowl of homemade soup. One of the quintessential soups that embodies both simplicity and heartiness is Potato Leek Soup. This classic dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also makes the most of humble ingredients, resulting in a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. Let’s explore how to create this delightful soup on the stove, perfect for a cosy evening at home.

Ingredients

For a lovely pot of Potato Leek Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 large leeks
• 500g (about 1.1 lbs) of floury potatoes, such as Maris Piper or King Edward
• 1 medium onion
• 1 litre (about 4 cups) vegetable or chicken stock
• 300ml (about 1.25 cups) of whole milk or cream (optional for creaminess)
• 50g (about 2 tablespoons) of butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Method

1. Prepare the Ingredients
   Start by cleaning the leeks thoroughly, as dirt can often hide between their layers. Cut off the dark green tops and the root end, then slice the leeks lengthwise and rinse them under cold water, fanning out the layers to remove any grit. Chop the leeks into small pieces.

   Next, peel and dice the potatoes into even-sized chunks. Finely chop the onion.

2. Sauté the Aromatics
   In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped leeks and onions, stirring gently. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until they begin to soften but do not allow them to brown. The goal here is to release their wonderful flavours.

3. Add the Potatoes and Stock
   Once the leeks and onions are soft, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Stir everything together to combine, then pour in the stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook for around 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Blend the Soup
   Once the potatoes are soft, you can decide how smooth you’d like your soup to be. For a chunky texture, simply mash the potatoes a little with a fork or potato masher. For a silkier finish, use a hand blender to purée the soup directly in the pot, or transfer it to a stand blender in batches. If you prefer a creamier soup, stir in the milk or cream at this stage. Heat through gently without boiling.

5. Season
   Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavours nicely if you want a bit of zing.

6. Serve
   Ladle the Potato Leek Soup into warm bowls and garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of colour. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a swirl of cream can also elevate the presentation and flavour.

Perfect Pairings

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a ploughman’s lunch. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main dish, it embodies the essence of comfort food.

Conclusion

This Easy Homemade Potato Leek Soup is a fantastic recipe that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients, executed with minimal fuss. Perfect for a weekday dinner or as a starter for a Saturday night gathering, it’s sure to please family and friends alike. So, next time you find yourself in need of some warmth and comfort, head to your kitchen and whip up this delightful soup — your taste buds will thank you!

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