Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup

This creamy potato leek soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for cozy dinners, lunch gatherings, or as a starter for special occasions, it showcases the beauty of simple ingredients combined to create a velvety, satisfying experience. The combination of sautéed leeks and creamy potatoes makes this soup a standout choice for anyone looking to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a handful of ingredients, this soup is quick and easy to make.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of sautéed leeks and creamy potatoes delivers a taste that’s both comforting and indulgent.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as an appetizer, lunch, or even a main course, making it suitable for various occasions.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious vegetables, this dish is hearty yet healthy.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup can be made in advance and reheated, perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make preparing Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup even more enjoyable. Having these essentials on hand ensures that your cooking experience goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Medium pot
• Immersion blender or high-powered blender
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Medium pot: Ideal for sautéing leeks and cooking the potatoes evenly without overcrowding.
• Immersion blender: Allows you to blend the soup directly in the pot for minimal cleanup and maximum convenience.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

This creamy potato leek soup is easy to make with just a handful of ingredients! Including sautéed leeks, creamy potatoes, and a touch of cream that is blended until velvety smooth. Nutritional Information and serving size is (1) cup or 8 Ounces.

For the Soup Base

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (+ more for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 pound Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and chopped into 1/2 inch cubes)
• 2-3 medium leeks (cut in half, sliced and cleaned well)
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (+ more for garnish)
• 5 cups vegetable stock

For the Creamy Finish

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Fresh thyme leaves (removed from stem, for garnish)

How to Make Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Leeks

Start by bringing a medium pot to medium heat.
* Add the unsalted butter and olive oil.
* Once melted, add the sliced leeks.
* Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened but not caramelized.

Step 2: Add Potatoes & Seasonings

Next, incorporate the cubed potatoes into the pot.
* Season with Kosher salt and ground black pepper.

Step 3: Simmer with Stock

Add enough vegetable stock to completely cover the vegetables.
* Cover with a lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape.
* Bring to a strong simmer.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Let the mixture cook until the potatoes are incredibly tender, about 35 minutes.

Step 5: Blend Until Smooth

Once done cooking,
* Turn off the heat,
* Use an immersion blender or high-powered blender to blend the soup until incredibly smooth.

Step 6: Stir in Cream

Pour in the heavy cream while stirring to mix thoroughly.

Step 7: Serve & Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme leaves,
* Drizzle with additional olive oil,
* Add extra grating of black pepper and salt if desired.

Enjoy your delicious bowl of Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup!

How to Serve Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup

Serving Julia Child’s creamy potato leek soup can elevate your dining experience. This velvety soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and textures.

Elegant Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chives for a burst of color and flavor.
• Croutons: Toasted bread cubes add delightful crunch and contrast to the creamy soup.

Pairing with Proteins

• Grilled Chicken: Serve a grilled chicken breast alongside for a heartier meal.
• Roasted Turkey: Slices of roasted turkey complement the soup’s richness and add protein.

Accompanying Bread Options

• Crusty Baguette: A slice of warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: The savory notes of garlic bread pair wonderfully with the creamy texture.

Serving Temperature

• Warm: Ensure the soup is served hot; reheat gently if it cools down to maintain its creamy consistency.

How to Perfect Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup

Perfecting Julia Child’s creamy potato leek soup requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these suggestions to achieve an exceptional bowl of soup.

• Use Fresh Leeks: Choose firm, vibrant leeks for the best flavor. Clean them thoroughly to remove any grit.
• Cook Potatoes Until Tender: Ensure potatoes are fully cooked before blending; this creates a smooth texture.
• Blend Thoroughly: Use an immersion blender or high-powered blender to achieve that silky-smooth consistency.
• Adjust Seasoning Last: Taste the soup after blending and adjust salt and pepper as needed for balanced flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup

Pairing side dishes with Julia Child’s creamy potato leek soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options.

1. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the soup.
2. Quiche Lorraine: This savory pie offers a delicious contrast in texture and flavor, making it an excellent side.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables bring color and nutrients to your table alongside the soup.
4. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses enhances the meal, providing additional flavors and textures.
5. Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice, beans, or vegetables, offering a hearty complement to your soup.
6. Savory Scones: Cheese or herb scones provide a delightful pairing, perfect for dipping into the rich broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup is simple, but there are a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly.

• Not Cleaning Leeks Properly: Leeks can trap dirt and grit between their layers. Always slice and rinse them thoroughly to avoid any unpleasant crunchiness in your soup.

• Overcooking the Potatoes: While you want the potatoes to be tender, overcooking can make them mushy. Keep an eye on them during the cooking process to achieve the right texture.

• Skipping the Blending Step: For a truly creamy texture, blending is crucial. Don’t skip this step; use an immersion blender or a high-powered blender for best results.

• Using Low-Quality Stock: The stock is the base of your soup’s flavor. Use a high-quality vegetable stock for a rich taste that elevates the entire dish.

• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Taste your soup before serving! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup.

Can I make Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup vegan?

You can easily make this soup vegan by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and using vegetable stock.

How do I customize Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with herbs like dill or parsley.

What can I serve with this soup?

This creamy potato leek soup pairs well with crusty bread, salads, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a comforting meal.

How long does it take to prepare Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup?

The total time required is about 45 minutes, including both prep and cooking times.

Final Thoughts

Julia Child’s Creamy Potato Leek Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with different herbs or vegetables according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a bowl of warmth and comfort!