Description: Irish Bacon and Leek Soup is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for chilly days. This traditional Irish soup combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the subtle sweetness of leeks, creating a delicious and satisfying bowl of goodness.

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Cooking time: 30 minutes

Serving size: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 6 slices of Irish bacon, chopped
• 2 large leeks, white and light green parts only, cleaned and thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped Irish bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pot.
2. In the same pot, add the butter and sauté the sliced leeks until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes to the pot and stir to combine with the leeks.
4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Once the potatoes are cooked, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth. If using a regular blender, work in batches to avoid splattering hot liquid.
6. Return the pureed soup to the pot, and stir in the whole milk or heavy cream. Bring the soup back to a gentle simmer and let it cook for a few more minutes.
7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that the Irish bacon can be salty, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.
8. Serve the Irish Bacon and Leek Soup hot, garnished with the crispy bacon pieces and chopped chives or parsley, if desired.

Enjoy this comforting Irish Bacon and Leek Soup with a slice of crusty Irish brown bread for a hearty and wholesome meal that celebrates the flavors of Ireland.