Vichyssoise is a chilled leek and potato soup, enriched with cream or in this case crème fraîche – which gives it more body and a pleasing sour tang. A classic French recipe perfect for a summer lunch or dinner party starter.
Slowly cook the leeks in the butter with a pinch of salt over a medium heat until soft, then add the potatoes and cook for a few more minutes, stirring to avoid any colour on the vegetables
Add the stock and bay leaf and cook at a very gentle simmer for 25 minutes
Fish out and discard the bay leaf, then blend the soup until very smooth. Stir in the crème fraiche and milk – you may not need all the milk but you don’t want the soup to be too thick as it will thicken further once cooled. You're looking for a double cream consistency
Taste and season the soup with lemon juice, salt and pepper then transfer to a jug and refrigerate. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkling of chives
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