Originally native to the Eastern Mediterranean area and Asia, leeks have been cultivated for more than 3,000 years and have long been popular in Europe.
In 640 A.D., the Welsh wore leeks in their hats to distinguish themselves from the enemy during the battle between King Cadwallader of Wales and the Saxons. The leek became an emblem of pride in Wales, and Welshmen wear the leek to commemorate King Cadwallader’s victory on St. David’s Day, March 1. The leek in Hebrew is called karti, which is a pun on the Hebrew word “yikartu,” meaning “to be cut off.” Thus, the Jews eat leeks at Rosh Hashanah to symbolize a wish for enemies to be cut off.
Nero ate leeks with oil regularly, thinking they were good for his singing voice. Perhaps Nero got the notion from Aristotle who claimed the clear cry of the partridge was due to its diet of leeks. Go figure.
- 1 large or 2 small leeks, about 1 pound
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 5 cups chicken stock
- 1 to 1 1/4 pounds russet potatoes, diced
- Salt & pepper
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup crème fraiche or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons snipped chives or parsley to garnish
Directions:
Using a sharp knife, halve the whole leek lengthwise and rinse well under cold running water to rid the leek of any sand. Slice thinly crosswise into one inch pieces and set aside.
In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and add the chopped leeks and cook until wilted, about five minutes. Add the reserved bouquet garni, chicken stock, potatoes, salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are falling apart and the soup is very flavorful.
Remove the bouquet garni and, working in batches, puree the soup in a food processor or blender. (Alternately, if you own an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the pot.) Stir in the crème fraiche and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. You don’t have to use cream, I never do. You are the chef. Serve immediately, with some of the snipped chives or parsley sprinkled over the top of each bowl of soup.
