Potato leek soup

Potato leek soup

Ingredients

• 3 large leeks
• 2 1/2 Tbsp. butter
• salt and pepper
• garlic powder
• 2 cups water
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 1/2 lbs. potatoes
• Tabasco sauce
• crumbled bacon (optional)

Directions

1. Cut leeks lengthwise and separate. Use only the white and pale green portions. Chop.
2. Heat leeks with butter, along with a dash of salt, pepper and garlic powder in a medium sauce pan. Cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes until cooked but not brown.
3. Peel and chop potatoes into 1/2-inch chunks.
4. Add water, chicken broth and potatoes to leeks.
5. Cook for 20 minutes and then remove half of mixture into a blender.
6. Puree and then return to pan.
7. Add tabasco sauce to taste.
8. Serve with crumbled bacon on top and a side of croutons or crusty bread.

Leek history

The leek belongs to the Alliceae family and is closely related to shallots and onions. Dried specimens of leek have been found in archeological sites of ancient Egypt, owing to the vegetable's long presence. Surviving texts indicate that leeks have been consumed for thousands of years, one of the earliest references being from Mesopotamia.

Leeks are very important to Welsh culture because of the legend of King Cadwaladr of Gwynedd, who ordered his soldiers to wear leek on their helmets in order to identify themselves in a famous battle against the Saxons. For that reason, they have long been a symbol of Wales, and they have come to be used extensively in that country's cuisine. As far as the rest of Britain, leeks are just now beginning to find their way back into popular cuisine, having been overlooked for fifty years.

Preparing leeks

Although they can be very tasty, leeks require a fair amount of preparation before they can be consumed. First, the roots must be removed. Then, the tough dark-green outer leaves can be removed if they are spotty or too tough, and then the ends of the remaining leaves should be trimmed. Cut the leek in half and then slice or chop. Place in a colander to wash. From there, leeks can be used in any of a variety of dishes.

Leek nutrition

Leek is a good source of dietary fiber, and regular consumption of leek helps the body to absorb foods more easily. This is important for diabetics because it helps the body rid itself of sugar more quickly. Leeks also help trap and remove harmful substances from the body, as well as contain diuretic properties, which aids in the elimination of water retention.

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