How to Make French Leek and Bacon Soup

If you're looking to warm up with a delicious and hearty dish, French Leek and Bacon Soup is a fantastic choice. This creamy, flavorful soup combines the subtle sweetness of leeks with the savory depth of bacon, creating a comforting bowl that’s perfect for any season. Follow this simple recipe to whip up your own pot of French Leek and Bacon Soup at home.

Ingredients

To make a mouthwatering French Leek and Bacon Soup, gather the following ingredients:

  • 4 large leeks, cleaned and sliced
  • 4 slices of bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh thyme, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by cleaning and slicing the leeks. Make sure to remove any grit between the layers. Chop the bacon, dice the onion, and peel and dice the potatoes. Mince the garlic, and set all the ingredients aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large pot over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until it’s crispy, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pot.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the diced onion and cook until it softens, about 4-5 minutes. Add the sliced leeks and minced garlic, and continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the leeks are tender.

Step 4: Add Potatoes and Broth

Next, add the diced potatoes to the pot, followed by the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft.

Step 5: Blend the Soup

Once the potatoes are tender, use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don’t have an immersion blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a standard blender, then return it to the pot.

Step 6: Add Cream and Bacon

Stir in the heavy cream, and then return the crispy bacon to the pot. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Heat through over low heat, ensuring not to boil the cream.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Serve the French Leek and Bacon Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme if desired. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal that will leave you feeling satisfied.

Tips for Success

  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
  • Try adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for additional flavor.
  • Consider using smoked bacon for an extra layer of flavor.

French Leek and Bacon Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that’s perfect for chilly evenings or a lunchtime treat. Enjoy creating this tasty soup that captures the essence of French cuisine!