Wiener Erdäpfel-Lauch-Suppe
Viennese Potato-Leek Soup
A comforting and hearty Viennese potato and leek soup, often enriched with a touch of cream and seasoned with marjoram and caraway. This soup is a staple in Austrian households, particularly during the colder months, offering a warming and flavorful experience.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Potatoes(peeled and cubed (about 5 medium))
- 3 large Leeks(white and light green parts only, cleaned and sliced)
- 1 medium Onion(finely chopped)
- 3 tbsp Butter
- 1.5 liter Chicken or Vegetable Broth
- 1 tsp Caraway Seeds
- 1 tsp Dried Marjoram
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 185 ml Heavy Cream(optional, for richness)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black Pepper
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley(chopped, for garnish)
- 2 tbsp Fresh Chives(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Clean the leeks thoroughly by slicing them lengthwise, then fanning them open under running water to remove any dirt. Slice the white and light green parts thinly.
💡 Tip: Ensure leeks are well-rinsed to avoid grittiness. - 2
Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced leeks and sauté until softened but not browned, about 10-15 minutes.
💡 Tip: Avoid browning the leeks to maintain their delicate flavor. - 3
Add the cubed potatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, caraway seeds, marjoram, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are very tender.
- 4
Remove and discard the bay leaf. Carefully purée the soup using an immersion blender until smooth, or transfer in batches to a regular blender. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
- 5
If using, stir in the heavy cream and heat gently until warmed through. Do not boil after adding cream. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
- 6
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and chives.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a small amount of bacon, rendered and crisped, as a garnish.
- ✓If you prefer a chunkier soup, purée only half of it.
- ✓This soup can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of crème fraîche.
- For a heartier meal, add sliced cooked frankfurters or small dumplings.