French Country Soup

French Country Soup, known as potage, is a traditional French family dish that embodies the heartwarming essence of French cuisine. This mixed vegetable potage is not only delicious but also a staple appetizer served in wide shallow bowls across the country. With a rich blend of leeks, potatoes, carrots, and fragrant herbs, it’s a delightful start to any meal.

SERVES 4
PREP 15 MIN
COOK 45 MIN
FREEZE UP TO 3 MONTHS
AT THE END OF STEP 2

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tbsp sunflower oil or peanut oil
• 2 tbsp (30g) butter
• 3 large leeks, cleaned and chopped
• 1 large starchy potato, coarsely cubed
• 2 large carrots, chopped
• 3 1/4 cups (750ml) vegetable stock or chicken stock
• 2 bay leaves
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup (100ml) hot water

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large sauté pan, heat the sunflower oil or peanut oil along with half of the butter over medium-low heat.
2. Add the chopped leeks, cubed potato, and chopped carrots to the pan.
3. Cook the vegetables, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Reduce the heat slightly and pour in the vegetable or chicken stock.
5. Add the bay leaves for an aromatic touch.
6. Season the mixture lightly with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
7. Cover the pan and let the vegetables simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for approximately 30 minutes or until the vegetables become very soft.
8. Allow the soup to cool for a few minutes, then remove and discard the bay leaves.
9. Transfer the soup to a blender and blend until it becomes smooth and creamy.
10. Strain the blended soup back into the pan through a sieve. Use the back of a wooden spoon to push through as much as possible.
11. Pour the hot water through the sieve to extract as much flavor as possible from the vegetables.
12. Reheat the soup gently, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.
13. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
14. Stir in the remaining butter to add a rich, silky finish.
15. Serve the French Country Soup piping hot in wide shallow bowls, as is customary in French households.

French Country Soup is a delightful appetizer that captures the essence of French family dining. Its rich flavors and creamy texture are sure to warm your heart and prepare your palate for a delicious French meal.

Indulge in the simple elegance of French Country Soup, a testament to the rustic charm of traditional French cuisine. With its silky texture and harmonious blend of vegetables, this appetizer serves as a wonderful prelude to any meal, capturing the essence of family dining in France. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening at home or as part of a special gathering, this soup is bound to leave you with a taste of authentic French culinary comfort. Bon appétit!