Ingredients

1 large or 2 small leeks, about 1 pound
2 bay leaves
20 black peppercorns
4 sprigs fresh thyme
2 tablespoons butter
2 strips bacon, chopped
1/2 cup dry white wine
5 cups chicken stock
1 to 1 1/4 pounds russet potatoes, diced
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
3/4 teaspoon white pepper

1/2 to 3/4 cup creme fraiche or heavy cream
2 tablespoons snipped chives

Instructions

Trim the green portions of the leek and, using 2 of the
largest and longest leaves, make a bouquet garni by folding the 2 leaves around the bay
leaves, peppercorns and thyme. Tie into a package-shaped bundle with kitchen twine and set
aside. (Alternately, tie 2 leek leaves, bay leaves, peppercorns and thyme together in a
piece of cheesecloth.)

Using a sharp knife, halve the white part of the leek lengthwise and rinse well under cold
running water to rid the leek of any sand. Slice thinly crosswise and set aside.

In a large soup pot over medium heat, melt the butter and add the bacon. Cook for 5 to 6
minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is very soft and has rendered most of its
fat. Add the chopped leeks and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Add the wine and bring
to a boil. Add the reserved bouquet garni, chicken stock, potatoes, salt and white pepper,
and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes, or until the

potatoes are falling apart and the soup is very flavorful.

Remove the bouquet garni and, working in batches, puree the soup in a food processor or
blender. (Alternately, if you own an immersion blender, puree the soup directly in the
pot.) Stir in the creme fraiche and adjust the seasoning, if necessary. Serve immediately,
with some of the snipped chives sprinkled over the top of each bowl of soup.