Potato Leek Cream Soup with Crispy Bacon

This delightful Potato Leek Cream Soup with Crispy Bacon is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for any time of the year. The rich and creamy texture of the soup, combined with the smoky flavor of crispy bacon, creates a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. The use of fresh ingredients like leeks and potatoes ensures a depth of flavor, while the creamy broth adds a luxurious touch. The crispy bacon not only adds a delightful crunch but also enriches the dish with its savory taste. This recipe is easy to follow and takes just an hour to prepare, making it ideal for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends. The soup can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences, and it pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining guests, this soup will surely impress. Serve it with a garnish of fresh leek rings for an extra touch of elegance.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 400 g leeks (light part only)
  • 3 medium potatoes
  • 8 slices of bacon
  • 1 onion
  • 1.4 liters vegetable broth
  • 140 ml heavy cream
  • 25 g butter

Preparation Time

  • Total: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. Dice the onion and cut 4 slices of bacon into small pieces. Add them to the pan and cook until golden.
  3. Peel and chop the potatoes into small cubes. Slice the leeks into rings.
  4. Add the potatoes and leeks to the pan. Lower the heat, cover, and let them cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. If your pan is large enough, pour the vegetable broth directly into it. Otherwise, transfer the contents to a pot and add the broth there.
  6. Cover the pot and simmer for about 20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  7. Once cooked, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
  8. Using an immersion blender, blend the mixture until smooth and silky without any lumps.
  9. Return the blended soup to the pot, stir in the heavy cream, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  10. Bring the soup back to a gentle boil.
  11. In another pan, cook the remaining bacon slices until crispy.
  12. Serve the soup in bowls topped with crispy bacon.
  13. For decoration, you can add fresh leek rings on top.
  14. Enjoy your delicious Potato Leek Cream Soup with Crispy Bacon!

Tips

  • **Use a non-stick pan** to prevent ingredients from sticking.
  • For a vegetarian version, replace bacon with crispy fried tofu.
  • Add a pinch of nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutrition

  • Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
  • Protein: 10g
  • Fats: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g

Variations

  • For a lighter soup, replace heavy cream with milk.
  • Add carrots for a sweeter taste.
  • For a gluten-free option, ensure the broth is gluten-free.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast.
  • Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
  • Top with grated cheese for added richness.

Best Places

  • The Soup Spoon - Known for its diverse soup recipes. Location: 14 Ebury St, Belgravia, London, UK.
  • Leek & Potato Café - Offers excellent soup selections. Location: 43 Rue de Paradis, Paris, France.
  • Brodo - A cozy spot for soup lovers. Location: 214 Mulberry St, New York, USA.
  • Soup Kitchen - Homemade soups in a casual setting. Location: 22 Ashton Lane, Glasgow, Scotland.
  • Mr. Lee's Soup - Asian-inspired soup varieties. Location: 533 George St, Sydney, Australia.
  • Zuppa Café - Offers seasonal soups and more. Location: 60 George Street, Ottawa, Canada.
  • Brotwanze - Known for German soup traditions. Location: Helgolandsgade 21, Copenhagen, Denmark.
  • Caldo Verde - Featuring hearty Portuguese soups. Location: Rua Portas de Santo Antão, Lisbon, Portugal.
  • Soup Culture Vienna - A modern twist on traditional soups. Location: Werdertorgasse 10, Vienna, Austria.
  • Sopo Soup Café - A local favorite for hearty soups. Location: Stockholmsvägen 45, Stockholm, Sweden.