Creamy Potato Leek Soup with Skyr

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Creamy Potato Leek Soup with Skyr

The warm embrace of a soup simmering on the stove transports me back to cherished memories of my grandmother’s kitchen. On chilly evenings, she would whip up her famous potato leek soup, filling the air with the aroma of sautéed leeks and fresh vegetables. Each bowl she served was a hug in a mug, creamy and utterly comforting.

The heart of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients like tender leeks, fluffy Yukon Gold potatoes, and a secret ingredient — skyr — it transforms into something extraordinary. This creamy potato leek soup pays homage to those times, allowing anyone to recreate that warmth and connection in their own kitchens.

Crafting this soup brings a wave of nostalgia with every step. I remember bustling around, trying to chop vegetables while ensuring the pot didn’t boil over. That chaos only added to the joy of cooking, which remains as vibrant today. This creamy potato leek soup embodies the comfort of home and the simple pleasure of gathering around the table to share a meal.

Let’s dive into the delightful world of creamy potato leek soup with skyr — a dish that speaks to the heart and palate alike.

Creamy Potato Leek Soup Basics

Fundamentals

Creamy potato leek soup is a testament to how simple ingredients can create profound flavors. At its core, this soup revolves around leeks, potatoes, and vegetable broth. The leeks offer a gentle sweetness that mellows beautifully with the savory notes of onion, while Yukon Gold potatoes bring creaminess and body to the mix.

Emphasizing fresh ingredients elevates the soup’s flavor. Using high-quality vegetable broth enhances depth and richness, while skyr introduces a unique tang and creaminess that distinguishes this dish. This foundational understanding helps anyone appreciate the magic behind creamy potato leek soup.

Preparation/Setup

Preparation is key to ensuring the success of your creamy potato leek soup. Begin by carefully trimming and washing the leeks. Removing the dark tops and rinsing out dirt ensures you eliminate any grit that could disrupt the smooth texture you’re aiming for. After this, slice the leeks and onion thinly.

Next, peel and chop your Yukon Gold potatoes. The effort put into proper chopping ensures even cooking and prevents any tough bites in your soup. You’re creating a comforting dish where each spoonful is a perfect blend of creamy textures and wholesome flavors.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your creamy potato leek soup:

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
  • 1½ pounds leeks, cleaned and sliced (white and light green parts only)
  • 1½ pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 3 sprigs fresh thyme)
  • ¾ teaspoon salt (or to taste, plus black pepper)
  • ½ cup skyr (and more for serving)
  • 2 tablespoons chives (for garnish)

With these ingredients at hand, you stand ready to create a bowl of warmth and comfort.

Directions

  1. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the thinly sliced leeks and onion, cooking for about 5 minutes or until they soften, stirring occasionally to prevent them from browning.
  3. Next, add the chopped Yukon Gold potatoes to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth, followed by the dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes become tender when pierced with a fork.
  5. Once tender, turn off the heat and stir in the ½ cup of skyr, allowing it to blend seamlessly.
  6. Use an immersion blender to achieve a creamy texture, or carefully blend in batches using a regular blender.
  7. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  8. Serve your soup hot, topped with extra skyr, freshly cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of chives for a touch of freshness.

Creamy Potato Leek Soup with Skyr

Elevating Your Creamy Potato Leek Soup

Technique

Mastering the technique of making creamy potato leek soup relies on the balance between sautéing and simmering. When cooking the leeks and onion, ensure they reach a soft, translucent state without browning. This step toes the line between flavor development and retaining a gentle sweetness.

After introducing the potatoes and broth, stick to a gentle simmer to promote even cooking. Rapid boiling can break down the potatoes too quickly, leading to a mushy texture rather than the desired creaminess. Allowing the flavors to meld at a steady pace ensures a richer taste in every bite.

Tips/Tricks

Keeping a few tips in mind can significantly enhance your soup-making experience. Use a heavy-bottomed pot to retain heat evenly, preventing hot spots that could scorch ingredients. This approach helps with maintaining a consistent texture throughout.

Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust the seasoning to your liking, as different vegetable broths can vary in saltiness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a hint of garlic or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Perfecting Your Creamy Potato Leek Soup

Perfecting Results

The beauty of creamy potato leek soup lies in its versatility. For a richer flavor, consider roasting the potatoes before adding them to the pot. This step introduces a caramelized note that enhances the overall depth.

Experiment with different herbs to find the combination that resonates best with your palate. Basil, dill, or even parsley can add a beautiful twist. Remember, food is a personal expression, and this soup is no exception.

Troubleshooting/Variations

If you find your soup is too thick, don’t hesitate to add more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it appears too thin, blending more potatoes or adding additional skyr will help thicken it.

For a heartier version, toss in some diced carrots or celery during the sautéing step. These additions not only bulk up the soup but also contribute more layers of flavor.

Serving and Storing Your Creamy Potato Leek Soup

Serving/Presentation

When serving creamy potato leek soup, presentation matters just as much as preparation. A drizzle of extra skyr creates visual appeal and an added layer of creaminess. Consider serving the soup in rustic bowls accompanied by fresh bread, allowing for a cozy dining experience.

Chives or your favorite fresh herbs sprinkled on top add color and freshness to the dish, making it inviting for family and friends. This soup creates an atmosphere of warmth, guiding everyone to gather around and enjoy.

Pairings/Storage

Storing your creamy potato leek soup is straightforward. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, use a gentle heat to prevent scorching, adding a splash of vegetable broth to restore its creamy consistency.

Pair this comforting soup with salads or sandwiches for a complete meal, or enjoy it on its own as a satisfying starter. It’s flexible enough to stand alone, yet can easily complement a variety of dishes, making it a seasonal favorite.

The creamy potato leek soup with skyr brings back the essence of comfort food while showcasing the beauty of simple ingredients. With its rich texture and homey flavors, it embodies warmth and connection in every sip.

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Creamy Potato Leek Soup with Skyr


  • Author: emma
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A warm and comforting soup made with tender leeks, Yukon Gold potatoes, and skyr, perfect for chilly evenings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 large white onion, thinly sliced
  • pounds leeks, cleaned and sliced (white and light green parts only)
  • pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme (or 3 sprigs fresh thyme)
  • ¾ teaspoon salt (or to taste, plus black pepper)
  • ½ cup skyr (and more for serving)
  • 2 tablespoons chives (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add thinly sliced leeks and onion, cooking for about 5 minutes or until softened.
  3. Add chopped Yukon Gold potatoes to the pot, then pour in vegetable broth, followed by dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
  4. Allow to simmer for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
  5. Stir in ½ cup of skyr and blend to achieve a creamy texture.
  6. Adjust seasonings as needed and serve hot, topped with extra skyr, black pepper, and chives.

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider roasting the potatoes before adding them to the pot. Adjust seasoning based on the saltiness of the vegetable broth.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: European

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 350mg
  • Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 10mg

Keywords: soup, potato leek, skyr, comfort food, vegetarian


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