Vichyssoise
45 Min
GF
NF

Vichyssoise

Vichyssoise, the elegant chilled potato and leek soup, was actually created in the early 20th century by a French chef working at a New York City hotel. Inspired by a soup his mother made during warm weather, he transformed the humble combination of potatoes and leeks into a classic.
With fresh local potatoes in abundance, I like to make my own version, infused with fragrant spices. Ginger and cloves add remarkable depth, while cumin, garlic and black pepper create a warming complexity that lingers even when the soup is served cold.
For the best silky texture, choose waxy potatoes rather than starchy ones. Yukon Gold or red potatoes hold their shape during cooking and blend into a smooth, creamy soup.

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Cook Time

45 Minutes + rest & chill time

Serves

3

Step 1
Peel the potatoes, cut them into 1-inch chunks and soak them in water. Slice the leek in half lengthwise, rinse well to remove any grit trapped between the layers, then thinly slice.
Step 2
Heat the ghee in a stockpot over medium-high heat. Add the cumin seeds, peppercorns, garlic, ginger, cloves and salt. As the spices become fragrant, add the leeks, drained potatoes and serrano pepper, if using. Pour in 3 cups of water, bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Remove from the heat and let the soup rest for about 1 hour.
Step 3
Stir in the cream, reserving 1 to 2 tablespoons for garnish. Puree the soup in a blender until completely smooth. If needed, thin with a little water until the soup is thick but pourable.
Step 4
Refrigerate for at least 3 to 4 hours. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped chives and a drizzle of olive oil and the reserved cream.

1-pound golden yellow potatoes

1 small leek

3 tablespoons ghee or melted butter

1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns

6 to 7 garlic cloves, sliced

2-inch piece of peeled ginger

3 to 4 cloves

1 serrano pepper (optional)

1 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 cup cream

Olive oil for drizzling

Chopped chives for garnish

Notes & Variations

  • Substitute some or all of the potatoes with turnips, carrots or sweet potatoes.
  • If your blender isn't powerful enough to fully puree whole peppercorns, omit them while cooking and stir in 1 teaspoon ground black pepper before serving.
  • Replace the cream with plain yogurt, almond milk or coconut milk for a different flavor and texture.
Tags:
45 Min
GF
NF

ALL DAY WE DREAM OF CREAMY SOUPS.

If you don't get why, taste these for yourself!

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