Apple-Leek Soup
A warm, comforting apple-leek soup with subtle sweetness and savory depth, perfect for cozy meals or elegant starters suitable for all seasons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter or heat olive oil in a saucepan.
- Add sliced leeks and cook, stirring often, for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add sliced potatoes, peeled and cored apples, and chicken broth to the pan.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until apples and potatoes are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after cooking the leeks. If you can't find McIntosh apples, other tart varieties like Granny Smith will work well. To thicken the soup, blend half of it after cooking and return it to the pot for a creamy texture. For a vegan option, substitute the butter with olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Apple-Leek Soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad, making it a perfect starter or light meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Aunt Nellie'S Dressing for a complete meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Apple-Leek Soup contains roughly 1385 calories, with 29g protein, 237g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (140% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (131% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (111% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 696mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of apples in this recipe?
Yes, while McIntosh apples are recommended for their tartness and softness, you can use other cooking apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the soup may vary slightly depending on the apple variety used.
Is it possible to make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. In fact, the flavors often deepen and improve after a day in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving, adding a bit of milk if it's too thick.
Can I freeze the Apple-Leek Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).