soup soup

I found my recipe for potato leek soup! It's going digital so I never lose it again.

Chef Heidelmeier's Potato Leek Chowder

4 leeks, cut up (the good part)
4 potatoes, cut up
2 oz. butter
4 oz. milk
4 oz. heavy cream
1 qt. rich white stock
1/4 tsp chervil
2 T celery, small dice
2 T shallots, minced
parsley, as needed

Sautè the leeks and shallots gently in half the butter. Add the stock, some salt, the celery, and the potatoes, and simmer for about a half hour.

Mash up some of the potato (not all) with an immersion blender. If you don't have one, a slotted spoon, potato masher, or whatever you can come up with works just fine. You're not making a bisque--this is a chunky, soulful, complete meal. Stir in the cream. If it's not the consistency you like, you can just let it reduce a little bit, or mash up more of the potato. Adjust the seasoning with Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Serve in a big bowl with parsley, or chives if you prefer, as garnish.

Don't let it boil, especially after you mash up the potato. Not only is that not so good for the flavor, but this soup will burn the shit out of you if it bubbles. It's seriously like hot oil--it clings to you and sears your skin off.