This creamy potato and leek soup is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for any season. The rich and velvety soup is topped with a delicious combination of crispy bacon, sweet apple, and fragrant sage, adding texture and a burst of flavor. Ideal for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch, this soup is sure to become a favorite.
Preparation Time:
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- For the Potato & Leek Soup:
- 3 Tbsp (42g) clarified butter or regular unsalted butter
- 4 large leeks, roughly chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
- 4 small potatoes, cubed
- 1 liter (4 cups) vegetable or chicken stock
- 180ml (3/4 cup) thickened or whipping cream
- Seasoning to taste
- For the Bacon, Apple & Crispy Sage Topping:
- 1 Tbsp (14g) clarified butter or regular unsalted butter
- 120g (4.2oz) streaky bacon, large diced
- 1 apple, peeled and small diced (Royal Gala recommended)
- 12g (0.4oz) fresh sage, roughly chopped or left whole
- Seasoning to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potato & Leek Soup:
- In a large pot, melt the clarified butter or regular unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the roughly chopped leeks and garlic cloves. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cubed potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken stock and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth.
- Stir in the thickened or whipping cream and season to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to heat through.
- Prepare the Bacon, Apple & Crispy Sage Topping:
- In a small skillet, melt the clarified butter or regular unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced streaky bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the small diced apple and fresh sage. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the apple is tender and the sage is crispy.
- Season to taste.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
- Top each bowl with the bacon, apple, and crispy sage mixture.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Garnish with extra fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for added flavor.
Cooking Tips:
- Ensure the leeks are thoroughly washed to remove any grit.
- Adjust the seasoning of the soup and topping to your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable stock.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Leeks are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and provide fiber.
- Potatoes are a good source of vitamins C and B6, and potassium.
- The soup provides a balanced combination of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Yes.
- Vegetarian: No (contains bacon; can be made vegetarian by omitting bacon).
- Vegan: No (contains butter, cream, and bacon; can be made vegan with plant-based alternatives).
- Dairy-Free: No (contains butter and cream; can be made dairy-free with plant-based alternatives).
Storage:
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water or stock if the soup is too thick.
- The topping is best made fresh, but can be stored separately and reheated briefly before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- The combination of creamy soup and crispy, flavorful topping creates a delightful texture and taste.
- Simple and straightforward to make, perfect for any cooking skill level.
- Comforting and hearty, making it ideal for cold days or when you need a satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
Potato and leek soup with bacon, apple, and crispy sage topping is a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy, velvety soup pairs beautifully with the crispy, savory, and slightly sweet topping, creating a balanced and flavorful meal. Enjoy this classic combination with a modern twist and savor every spoonful!