Leek and Potato Soup
AI-generated image
Vegetarian Gluten-free British

Leek and Potato Soup

A classic British soup of buttery leeks and tender potatoes simmered in vegetable stock until silky, with crème fraîche adding a gentle tang and richness.

50 min 4 servings Medium
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How to prepare

1
Melt 30 g of the butter in a large heavy saucepan over medium-low heat. Add the sliced leeks and salt, cover, and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until very soft but not browned.
2
Add the potato cubes, vegetable stock, bay leaf, thyme, and white pepper. Raise the heat and bring the liquid to a gentle boil, then reduce to low.
3
Cover loosely and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring once halfway, until the potatoes are completely tender and can be easily pierced with a knife.
Leeks and potatoes simmering until tender in vegetable stock. AI-generated image
4
Remove the bay leaf and thyme stems. Blend the soup with an immersion blender until smooth, or blend in batches with the lid vented, taking care with the hot liquid.
5
Stir in the remaining 10 g butter and the crème fraîche. Warm over low heat for 2 minutes without boiling, then taste and adjust the salt and white pepper.
6
Ladle into warmed bowls and serve immediately, adding a small spoonful of crème fraîche and a little white pepper if desired.
Silky leek and potato soup finished with crème fraîche. AI-generated image

Why this recipe works

Sweating the leeks in butter develops sweetness without harsh browning, while potatoes release just enough starch to create a naturally creamy texture. A little crème fraîche balances the soup with fresh acidity.

Storage and reheating

How to store it

Cool the soup promptly, refrigerate it in a covered container, and use within 3 days. It can be frozen without the crème fraîche for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

How to reheat it

Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until steaming hot throughout. Do not let it boil vigorously, especially after adding crème fraîche.

Nutrition / serving

370kcal
6.92 gprotein
50.50 gcarbs
16.43 gfat
P
Pantryvale editorial kitchen
Recipe prepared for publication with complete ingredients and ordered cooking steps.
Published 13 Aug 2026 · updated 14 Aug 2026