Leek and Potato Soup with Stilton Toast
Why this recipe works
- Velvety texture: Tender potatoes blend smoothly into the stock, while double cream rounds out the finish without making the soup heavy.
- Gentle savoury depth: Softened leeks, butter, bay leaves and vegetable stock create a mellow base that lets the leek flavour stay clear.
- Crisp, salty contrast: Stilton toast adds crunch and a sharp, creamy saltiness that balances the soft, mild soup.
Get the most out of this recipe
Ingredient notes
- Clean the leeks well: Slice the leeks lengthways before rinsing so any grit trapped between the layers can be washed away.
- Choose creamy potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes give the soup a naturally smooth, rounded texture once blended.
- Use Stilton for contrast: Stilton brings the salty, tangy edge that makes the toast more than just a garnish.
Texture tips
- For a smoother soup: Blend thoroughly after removing the bay leaves, making sure the potatoes are completely tender first.
- To loosen the consistency: Add a little more vegetable stock after blending until the soup reaches your preferred thickness.
- Keep the cream gentle: Warm the soup gently after adding the double cream and avoid boiling, which can cause the cream to split.
Make-ahead tips
- Make the soup in advance: The soup can be cooked ahead, cooled quickly and refrigerated in a sealed container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze without the toast: Freeze the soup on its own, then defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat gently: Warm in a saucepan over a low heat, stirring often, and add a little stock if it has thickened.
Serving ideas
- Serve with a simple salad: A crisp green salad works well alongside the creamy soup and rich Stilton toast.
- Add a fresh finish: A little chopped parsley or chives can brighten the bowl without overpowering the leek flavour.
Equipment you'll need
Ingredients
Soup
Stilton toast
Instructions
- Trim the leeks, then slice them lengthways and rinse well to remove any grit; slice into thin half-moons. Peel the potatoes and cut into small, even chunks.
- Melt the butter in a large pot over a medium heat. Add the leeks with the salt and pepper, then cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring, until softened but not browned.
- Stir in the potatoes and bay leaves, then pour in the vegetable stock. Bring to the boil, reduce to a gentle simmer, and cook for 15 to 18 minutes until the potatoes are very tender.
- Remove and discard the bay leaves, then blend the soup until completely smooth. Stir in the double cream and warm gently for 2 to 3 minutes until steaming hot, without boiling.
- Toast the bread in a dry frying pan over a medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes per side until crisp and golden. Crumble the Stilton over the hot toast so it softens slightly, then serve alongside the soup.
Recipe notes
Tips
- For a cleaner leek flavour, use only the white and pale green parts and take time to rinse thoroughly.
- If you prefer a lighter soup, add a splash more vegetable stock after blending to loosen it to your liking.
- Avoid boiling once the double cream is added, as it can split and dull the flavour.
Substitutions
- Replace Double cream with Crème fraîche for a slightly tangier finish; stir it in off the heat.
- Replace Crusty white bread with Sourdough bread for a sturdier toast that holds the Stilton well.
- Replace Unsalted butter with Olive oil for a lighter base.
Storage
- Refrigerate up to 3 days
- Cool the soup quickly, then refrigerate in a sealed container. Reheat gently in a saucepan over a low heat until piping hot, stirring often; add a splash of vegetable stock if it has thickened. Freeze the soup without the toast for up to 3 months and defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Recipe overview
- Servings: 4 servings
- Total time: 45min (15min active)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: British
-
Allergens:
Gluten Milk Wheat
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