cocka leek soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
cocka leek soup recipe
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The Best cocka leek soup recipe

I’ve been making cock-a-leek soup for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress my family. The dish originated in the UK, where it’s a staple comfort food. The combination of tender chicken, creamy potatoes, and sweet leeks is a match made in heaven.

When I’m short on time, this soup is one of my go-to meals because it’s easy to prepare and can be made in large quantities. My kids love helping me peel and chop the vegetables, and they devour the soup like there’s no tomorrow. I like to serve it with a swirl of cream or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs for added flavor and texture.

The technique behind making cock-a-leek soup is straightforward – simply sauté the vegetables in butter until they’re softened, then add in chicken broth and diced potatoes. Let the mixture simmer until the potatoes are tender, then stir in shredded chicken and cook until heated through. You can also add in some grated cheese or chopped herbs for extra flavor.

One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a main course, or use it as a base for other soups or stews. One of the key techniques behind making great cock-a-leek soup is using high-quality ingredients. Look for fresh leeks with tight green leaves and firm white stalks – these will give your soup the best flavor.

Don’t be afraid to use leftover chicken or beef broth to add depth to your soup. And if you’re feeling fancy, try adding some diced ham or bacon for added smokiness.

Cock-a-Leekie Soup

Cock-a-Leekie Soup

4.6 from 1342 votes

Cock-a-Leekie Soup is a traditional Scottish soup made with chicken, leeks, and rice. It is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for cold weather.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 whole chicken, about 4 lbs
3 large leeks
1 large onion
2 medium carrots
2 stalks celery
1 bay leaf
1 tsp black peppercorns
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp vegetable oil
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the chicken in a large pot.
2Cover with cold water and add bay leaf, peppercorns, and salt.
3Bring to a boil over high heat.
4Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, skimming any foam that rises to the top.
5The liquid should be clear, not cloudy.
6While the chicken is simmering, clean the leeks by cutting off the dark green tops and the roots.
7Slice the white and light green parts into thin rounds.
8Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces.
Set aside.
9After 20 minutes, remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool.
10Strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean pot, discarding the solids.
11Return the broth to the pot, bring to a boil over medium-high heat and add the leeks, onion, carrots, and celery.
12Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
13Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the skin and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
14Add the chicken meat and rice to the pot.
15Stir well to combine.
16Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.
17Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
18Stir in the chopped parsley.
19Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
20The soup should be thick and creamy, with the rice fully cooked and the vegetables tender.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon
Measuring cup

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

Tips: You can use a rotisserie chicken for convenience. Add a splash of cream for a richer soup.

Watch Video Of How Cock-a-Leekie Soup Works

Cocka leek soup is a dish that I always enjoy making and sharing with my family. It’s a comforting and hearty soup that is perfect for any occasion.

It’s a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, making it a great option for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The soup is also a great way to get some healthy ingredients into your diet.

Leeks are a great source of vitamins and minerals, and the chicken provides a good amount of protein. It is always a good idea to make this dish and share it with family and friends.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cock-a-Leekie Soup

What type of potatoes should I use?

I recommend using high-starch potatoes like Russet or Idaho – these will break down beautifully during cooking.

Can I make this recipe without chicken?

Yes – simply omit the diced chicken and add in more vegetables or beans for protein.

How do I store leftover cock-a-leek soup?

Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes – simply brown the vegetables in butter before adding all ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

What’s the best way to reheat cock-a-leek soup?

I recommend reheating your soup gently over low heat, stirring occasionally – this will help prevent scorching.

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