Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of soup that not only nourishes your body but also tantalizes your taste buds! Our Slow Cooker Smoked Salmon Potato Leek Soup is the perfect dish for those cozy evenings when you crave something rich and flavorful without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a gourmet meal that’s sure to impress family and friends. Dive into this delightful recipe and discover how easy it is to whip up a bowl of pure comfort!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large leeks, sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup smoked salmon, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the leeks. Cut off the root ends and the dark green tops, leaving only the white and light green parts. Slice the leeks in half lengthwise and then into thin half-moons. Rinse the sliced leeks thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or grit.
- Next, peel the potatoes and dice them into small, even cubes. This will help them cook evenly and blend well with the soup.
- In your slow cooker, add the sliced leeks and diced potatoes. Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable broth, ensuring that the vegetables are submerged.
- Set the slow cooker to low heat and cover it with the lid. Allow the soup to cook for about 6 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Once the cooking time is complete, carefully remove the lid and use an immersion blender to puree the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can blend only half of the soup and leave the rest as is.
- After blending, stir in the 1 cup of heavy cream to add richness and creaminess to the soup. Mix well to combine.
- Now, fold in the chopped smoked salmon gently, allowing it to warm through without cooking further. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.
- Once everything is well combined, let the soup sit for an additional 10-15 minutes on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.
- When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill for a burst of flavor and color. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Smoked Salmon Potato Leek Soup!
Tips
- Prep Your Ingredients: Take a few extra minutes to properly clean and slice the leeks. Ensuring they are free of grit will enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture. They hold their shape well during cooking and blend beautifully into the soup.
- Customize the Consistency: If you prefer a chunkier soup, only blend half of the mixture. This will give you a delightful contrast between smooth and textured bites.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce just before serving for an extra zing that complements the smoked salmon beautifully.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh dill adds a wonderful aromatic touch, but feel free to experiment with other herbs like chives or parsley for a unique flavor twist.
- Make Ahead: This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze portions for a quick meal later on.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair your soup with some crusty bread or a side salad to complete the meal and soak up every last drop of that delicious broth!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 70mg