How Do You Make Vichyssoise (Potato Leek Soup)?
Vichyssoise (pronounced “vishi’swaz”), although invented in the USA, is a French-style soup made of puréed leeks, onions, potatoes, cream, and chicken stock. It is traditionally served cold, although it is also delicious served hot. This wonderful, smooth soup can be made ahead of time and can be garnished with a very few finely chopped chives, if desired. • Gently sweat the chopped leeks and the chopped onion in butter or margarine in a medium saucepan over medium heat until soft, about 8 minutes. Do not let them brown. • Add potatoes and stock to the saucepan. Salt and pepper to taste; do not overdo them! Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer very gently for 30 minutes. • Puree in a blender or food processor until very smooth. Cool. Gently stir in the cream before serving. • If serving hot, heat gently over medium heat stirring constantly just before serving. • Ladle into individual serving bowls. Garnish with fresh snipped chives.
