How to Make Vichyssoise

This rich soup – served cold – combines leeks and potatoes to create a culinary treat for your tastebuds.

Step 1: Cut leeks Cut the roots and tops from the leeks, leaving only white and pale green parts. Cut each leek in half lengthwise. Slice about 4 ½ cups, reserving any left over for another use.
Step 2: Clean leeks Rinse the leeks in a large bowl of cool water. Transfer them to a colander, drain, and pat dry.
TIP: Clean thoroughly -- a lot of dirt can settle in different parts of the leeks.
Step 3: Melt butter and cook leeks Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the leeks and cook for 10 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 4: Simmer potatoes, broth, water, salt, and pepper Peel and thinly slice the potatoes. Add potatoes, broth, water, salt, and pepper to the leeks. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
Step 5: Puree the mixture Spoon half of the potato mixture into a blender. Cover the blender and puree. Pour the puree into a large bowl, and repeat with the remaining mixture.
Step 6: Stir milk and cream into the puree and refrigerate Stir milk and cream into the puree. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for four hours.
Step 7: Spoon into bowls and garnish with chives Spoon the cold soup into bowls. Chop the chives and use to garnish the soup.
FACT: Did you know? Vichyssoise was created by a French chef at New York's Ritz-Carlton Hotel in the early 1900s.