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Vichyssoise

A creamy, chilled soup made with leeks and potatoes, perfect for hot summer days or as an elegant appetizer.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Side Dish, Soup
Cuisine: French
Calories: 230

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 large leeks, white and light green parts only Choose fresh, high-quality leeks for the best flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed Use homemade chicken broth for better richness.
  • 5 cups chicken broth Can be replaced with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • 1 cup heavy cream May substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 0.25 teaspoon white pepper
  • to taste Fresh chives, finely chopped For garnish.
  • to taste Extra cream for garnish (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Trim the dark green tops from the leeks. Slice the white and light green sections lengthwise and rinse each layer thoroughly under cold running water. Pat dry and slice thinly to remove any grit.
Cooking
  1. In a large heavy-bottomed soup pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add the leeks and sliced onion, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant. Avoid browning them.
  2. Stir in the cubed Yukon Gold potatoes, then pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently to combine. Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a light simmer.
  3. Cook uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the potatoes are very soft.
Blending and Finishing
  1. Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for several minutes. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup or carefully transfer batches to a blender until completely smooth.
  2. Strain the blended soup through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl, discarding any fibers from the leeks.
  3. Stir in the heavy cream, salt, and white pepper. Adjust seasonings as needed.
Chilling
  1. Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to the refrigerator. Chill for at least 4 hours or preferably overnight.

Notes

For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or freeze for up to 3 months.