3largeleeks (white and light green parts only), thoroughly cleaned and finely sliced
4mediumpotatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
1mediumonion, diced
3clovesof garlic, minced
4cupsof vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought)
1cupof unsweetened almond milk (or your preferred plant-based milk)
2tablespoonsof extra virgin olive oil
1teaspoonof dried thyme
to tastesea salt and freshly ground black pepper
for garnishfresh chives or parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced leeks and diced onion. Sauté for approximately 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become soft and translucent.
Add the minced garlic to the pot, stirring constantly. Cook for an additional minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Incorporate the diced potatoes and dried thyme into the pot. Stir everything together, allowing the potatoes to absorb the flavors for about 2 minutes.
Carefully pour in the vegetable broth, increase the heat to bring the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes can be easily pierced with a fork.
Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the hot soup in batches to a stand blender—just make sure to vent the lid to allow steam to escape.
Return the blended soup to the pot (if using a blender) and stir in the almond milk. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground pepper as required. If needed, reheat the soup gently over low heat until warm.
Ladle the soup into bowls, and sprinkle with finely chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness before serving warm.
Notes
Serve in deep, wide bowls and drizzle a little olive oil on top for a decorative touch.