Is That Supposed To Be A Potato And Leek Soup?

Food is symbolic of love when words are inadequate. — Alan D. Wolfelt.

This warm, creamy, and filling soup with russet potatoes, fresh leeks, and chopped ham is a comforting and satisfying dish. The combination of flavors creates a hearty and delicious soup that is perfect for any occasion.

Ham, Potato, and Leek Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large or 2 small leeks, to make 4 cups thinly sliced leeks, white and light green parts only
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 large russet potatoes (about 1 pound), peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 2 cups ham, diced
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup cream, half-and-half, or chicken stock
• Salt, to taste
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chives, or dill, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook leeks in butter: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the leeks and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes, or until the leeks are soft but not browned.
2. Add broth, potatoes, white pepper, simmer 25 min: Add the chicken broth, potatoes, and white pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes or until the vegetables are very tender.
3. Purée the soup: Using an immersion blender, or a standing blender working in batches, process the soup until smooth. If using a standing blender, do not fill it more than a third full with hot soup.
4. Add ham, cream, seasonings: Stir in the diced ham and enough cream, milk, or half-and-half, or stock to thin the soup to the desired consistency. Season to taste with salt. Garnish with parsley, chives, or dill.

Wine Pairing

This creamy and flavorful soup pairs wonderfully with a glass of Chardonnay. I recommend the La Crema Chardonnay, which has a perfect balance of oak and fruit flavors that complement the richness of the soup.

Bon Appetit

If you’ve concocted this potato and leek soup without it resembling a gloopy, tasteless mess that even a desperate duck would avoid, then congratulations are in order. Interested in more culinary experiments that might swing between delightful and dubious? Hit that subscribe button for a smorgasbord of recipes that promise adventure with every spoonful. And if you’re brimming with confidence, convinced your tweaks could transform this soup from a forgettable liquid to a memorable feast, by all means, share your culinary genius in the comments. Or, perhaps it’s best to savor your success in silence, knowing you’ve dodged the bullet of culinary mediocrity.