Leek soup dressed with yogurt

Leek soup with yogurt: A delicious recipe that brings joy to any home

Leek soup is a traditional recipe, full of flavors and textures that combine simple yet nutritious ingredients into a comforting dish. It is an ideal meal for cool days, where each spoonful brings not only warmth but also a touch of good mood. In this recipe, the leek becomes the undeniable star, while the yogurt adds a note of freshness that perfectly complements the soup. Let’s embark on the preparation of this culinary delicacy!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 fresh leek (approximately 200 g)
- 4 medium potatoes (approximately 600 g)
- 1 slice of celery (approximately 100 g)
- 1 large onion (approximately 150 g)
- 1 large carrot (approximately 150 g)
- 1 parsley root (approximately 100 g)
- 2 ripe tomatoes (approximately 200 g)
- 1 bell pepper (approximately 150 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 350-400 ml yogurt (preferably Greek for a creamier texture)
- A handful of fresh chopped parsley
- 1-2 sprigs of fresh tarragon (or 1 teaspoon of dried tarragon)
- Salt and pepper to taste

The history of leek soup is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of many cultures, being appreciated for its nutritional properties as well as for the refined taste it offers. The leek, often an underestimated ingredient, is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, low in calories, making it ideal for a healthy diet.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the carrot, celery, and parsley root. Use a large grater to grate the carrot, and chop the other vegetables into small cubes. Peel the potatoes and cut them into equal-sized cubes for even cooking.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2-2.5 liters of water and place it on the stove. While the water heats up, put the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the grated carrot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes slightly soft. This step will enhance the flavor of the vegetable.

3. Boiling the soup: Once the water has started to boil, add the cubed potatoes, celery and parsley roots, and chopped onion. Let everything boil for 10 minutes. Then, add the sliced leek and diced bell pepper. Cook on low heat, covered, until all the vegetables are almost tender.

4. Finishing the soup: Add the peeled and diced tomatoes. Continue to boil the soup for another 5-8 minutes. Finally, season with salt and pepper, then add the chopped parsley and tarragon, mixing well.

5. Incorporating the yogurt: In a separate bowl, mix the yogurt with two ladles of hot soup. This will prevent the yogurt from curdling when added to the pot. Once you have a homogeneous mixture, pour it into the soup, stirring gently to combine the flavors.

6. Serving: The leek soup is served hot, sprinkled with a little fresh parsley on top. It is delicious alongside a slice of fresh bread or with crunchy croutons. A unique idea would be to serve it with a spoonful of yogurt on top for added creaminess.

Useful tips:
- Choose a fresh leek with green leaves and a firm stem for a tastier soup.
- Tomatoes can be replaced with tomato juice if they are out of season.
- If you want a more intense flavor, you can add some spices like sweet paprika or cumin.
- For a vegan version, replace the yogurt with a plant-based yogurt.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other vegetables? Sure! You can add zucchini or peas, depending on your preferences.
- How can I make the soup spicier? By adding a chopped hot pepper or a little hot paprika.
- How long does the soup last in the fridge? It can be stored in airtight containers for 3-4 days.

Nutritional benefits:
Leek soup is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, being a dish that supports digestive health. Additionally, yogurt provides beneficial probiotics for gut flora.

This leek soup with yogurt is not only a simple and quick recipe but also a wonderful way to add more vegetables to your diet. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, knowing that you provided a meal full of flavors and nutrients will make you feel great. So, let’s get cooking!