30 Dec 2025
Cook time 28 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 leek
2 garlic cloves
3 potatoes
4 cups chicken gravy
1/3 cup sour cream
2 tbsp chives
Potato and leek soup is a classic comfort dish that combines the mild, sweet flavor of leeks with the hearty texture of potatoes. Perfect for a chilly day, this soup is both creamy and satisfying. Here's a straightforward recipe to make this delicious soup at home.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Clean and thinly slice the leek, ensuring all sand and dirt are removed. Use only the white and light green parts.
- Peel and dice the potatoes into roughly 1-inch cubes.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
- Finely chop the chives for garnishing later.
2. Cook the Leeks and Garlic:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced leeks to the pot, and sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
3. Add the Potatoes and Gravy:
- Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the leek and garlic mixture.
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken gravy or broth. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Blend the Soup:
- After the potatoes are cooked through, remove the pot from the heat.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. If you don't have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup in batches to a countertop blender and blend until smooth, then return the soup to the pot.
6. Finish with Sour Cream and Season:
- Stir in the 1/3 cup of sour cream until fully incorporated. If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve:
- Ladle the hot potato and leek soup into bowls.
- Garnish with finely chopped chives for a fresh burst of flavor.
8. Enjoy:
- Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
With its harmonious blend of aromatic leeks and hearty potatoes, this potato and leek soup is an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course, it promises to warm your soul and impress your taste buds. Enjoy your homemade comfort in a bowl!
Potato and leek soup FAQ:
What is the best way to store leftover potato and leek soup?
Store leftover potato and leek soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage, but it's best to omit the sour cream before freezing and add it after reheating.
How can I adjust the thickness of my potato and leek soup?
If your soup is too thick, add a little chicken broth or water gradually until you reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to help thicken it up.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken gravy in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for chicken gravy. This will make the soup vegetarian-friendly while still retaining great flavor.
How can I tell when the potatoes are done cooking in the soup?
The potatoes are done when they are tender and can easily be pierced with a fork. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes of simmering after the soup reaches a boil.
What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a similar creaminess, or use a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream if you're looking for a dairy-free option.
Tips:
- When cleaning leeks, make sure to rinse them thoroughly to remove any grit or dirt between the layers.
- Use a waxy potato variety like Yukon Gold for a smoother texture.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine before simmering.
- Blend the soup in batches if your blender is small, and always be cautious when blending hot liquids.
- If you prefer a chunkier soup, blend only a portion of the soup and mix it back into the pot.
- Garnish with extra chives or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor and presentation.