Slow Cooker Potato Leek Soup
This delicious slow cooker potato leek soup is perfect for those busy days when you want a homemade meal without the fuss. Toss the ingredients into your slow cooker and let it simmer away.
You will come home to a hearty and satisfying soup that will warm you up from the inside out. It is packed with creamy potatoes and flavorful leeks.
Enjoy a warm and comforting bowl of soup with minimal effort.
Origins
Tracing back to traditional French cuisine, slow cooker potato leek soup is a comforting and flavorful dish with its roots in the classic vichyssoise.
This chilled soup typically includes leeks, potatoes, cream, and chicken stock.
The slow cooker version of the dish offers a convenient twist, allowing you to achieve the same rich flavors of vichyssoise with the ease of letting the ingredients simmer for a longer period of time.
The slow cooker method also provides a hands-off approach, making it an ideal meal for those seeking a delicious and effortless dish.
Ingredients
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For the soup:
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4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
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2 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
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3 cloves of garlic, minced
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4 cups of vegetable broth
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1 cup of heavy cream
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Salt and pepper to taste
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For the garnish:
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Fresh chives, chopped
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Crispy bacon bits
Instructions
To make this delicious slow cooker potato leek soup, just follow these steps.
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Prep the ingredients:
- Peel and chop 4 potatoes.
- Rinse and chop 2 leeks, using only the white and light green parts.
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Sauté the leeks:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped leeks and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Combine the ingredients:
- Transfer the sautéed leeks, chopped potatoes, 4 cups of vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste into a slow cooker.
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Cook the soup:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the potatoes are tender.
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Blend the soup:
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or transfer it to a countertop blender in batches and blend until smooth.
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Serve and enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley, if desired. Serve hot and savor your comforting potato leek soup!
Tips for Cooking
For optimal results when cooking slow cooker potato leek soup, adhere to these helpful tips.
| Tips |
|---|
| 1. Utilize fresh leeks for the best flavor. |
| 2. Clean the leeks thoroughly to get rid of any dirt or sand. |
| 3. Slice the leeks thinly for even cooking. |
| 4. Select starchy potatoes, such as russets, for a creamy texture. |
| 5. Peel and chop the potatoes into small cubes for faster cooking. |
| 6. Include garlic and herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for extra flavor. |
| 7. Employ low sodium vegetable or chicken broth to manage the saltiness. |
| 8. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. |
| 9. Mix occasionally to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom. |
| 10. Purée the soup until smooth, using an immersion blender or a regular blender. |
Final Thoughts
As you complete preparing your slow cooker potato leek soup, take a moment to appreciate the flavors that will soon fill your kitchen.
The blend of gentle potatoes, savory leeks, and aromatic herbs creates a comforting and gratifying soup ideal for any occasion.
The slow cooking process allows flavors to blend together, resulting in a creamy and flavorful texture. The scent of the soup simmering through the day will make your mouth water in anticipation.
Once it’s ready, indulge in a warm bowl of this hearty soup and relish each spoonful. The creamy consistency and delightful taste will leave you feeling nourished and content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Leeks Instead of Fresh Ones?
Yes, you can certainly substitute frozen leeks for fresh ones. They will still bring great flavor and texture to your soup. Just make sure you thaw them out before throwing them into the slow cooker.
How Many Servings Does This Recipe Make?
This recipe yields about 4 servings. You’ll have enough soup to share with family or friends. You can always modify the ingredients to make more or less.
Can I Use Vegetable Broth Instead of Chicken Broth?
Yes, you can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth in the recipe. The flavor of the soup will be different, but it will still be delicious. Enjoy your homemade soup!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup, Such as Carrots or Celery?
Yes, you can definitely add other vegetables such as carrots or celery to the soup. It will not only improve the flavor but also provide more nutrients. Simply chop them up and add them to the slow cooker with the other ingredients.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time and Freeze It for Later Use?
Yes, you can absolutely prepare this soup in advance and store it in the freezer for later use. This is a great way to save time and have a delicious meal available when you need it.
