Leek soup with potatoes and wine

Leek and Potato Soup with Wine – A Comforting Delight for Chilly Days

Leek and potato soup with wine is a recipe that combines the delicate flavor of vegetables with the fine aromas of wine, creating a dish that will not only warm your soul but also impress with its taste. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy a bowl of goodness on chilly days. Furthermore, the soup is an excellent choice for a healthy diet, being rich in nutrients and low in calories.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 4 large white potatoes
- 3 stalks of leek
- 1 parsley root
- 1 slice of celery
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- 850 ml vegetable broth (or water, but broth adds a lot of flavor)
- 150 ml semi-dry white wine
- 1 stalk of celery (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh dill (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling the potatoes. Wash them well under cold running water, then cut them into cubes of about 2 cm. I recommend choosing white potatoes, as they have a creamy texture, perfect for soups.

2. Cutting the leek:
Wash the leek and slice it into rounds, including the green part. The leek adds a subtle yet unique flavor to your soup. Make sure to remove any impurities between the layers.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
Cut the parsley root and the slice of celery into small cubes. These vegetables will contribute to extra flavor and nutrients.

4. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a deep pot, add the 3 tablespoons of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the potato cubes, leek, parsley, and celery. Sprinkle a little salt, cover the pot with a lid, and let the vegetables sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

5. Adding the liquid:
Once the vegetables have softened, add the vegetable broth (or water) and the semi-dry white wine. The wine will bring a refined taste, and the alcohol will evaporate during boiling, leaving only its pleasant aroma. Cover the pot again and let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes, until all the vegetables are well cooked.

6. Blending the vegetables:
After the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let the soup cool slightly. Then, strain the soup through a sieve, keeping the liquid. Use a blender to turn the vegetables into a fine puree. This step is essential for achieving a creamy and velvety texture.

7. Finalizing the soup:
Add the vegetable puree back into the pot, along with the reserved broth. Adjust the taste with salt and pepper, then let the soup boil for another 2-3 minutes.

8. Serving:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly chopped dill and leek rounds. This will add a touch of freshness and an attractive look to your dish.

Practical tips:
- You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to vary the flavor and texture of the soup.
- If you prefer a soup with a more intense flavor, you can replace the white wine with red wine or add spices like thyme or sweet paprika.
- For a creamier version, you can add sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving, providing a velvety texture and rich flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Leek is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, while potatoes provide complex carbohydrates that supply energy. The soup is low in calories, making it an ideal choice for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of vegetables?
Yes, this soup is very versatile. You can experiment with various vegetables according to your preferences.

- How can I store the soup?
You can store the soup in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it to enjoy later.

- What can I serve with the soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with bread croutons, a slice of toasted bread, or even a fresh salad.

Leek and potato soup with wine is not only a nourishing dish but also a true celebration of flavors. Savor every spoonful and enjoy the warmth and comfort that this delicious recipe offers! I invite you to share your impressions in the comments, and if you have suggestions or variations, feel free to share them! Enjoy your meal!