Friday, October 1, 2010

Cauliflower Leek Soup

2 leeks
1 sweet yellow onion, diced
1 large head cauliflower, diced
Vegetable or chicken stock
Seasonings:  Fresh grated black pepper, white pepper, bay leaf, ground mustard, nutmeg(all to taste)

Discard any leek leaves that look questionable.  Slice leek lengthwise down the middle and then into half moons.  Place in fine sieve strainer that fits inside another bowl.  Cover with water and soak.  Rinse several times to remove all sand.  Pour all ingredients into large crockpot.  Add enough stock just to cover veggies.  Cover and cook on high 4 hours, turn to low another 2-3 hours.  Remove bay leaf.  Using an immersion(stick) blender puree until smooth, it helps if you use a potato masher first to break up large pieces.  Optional toppings:  bacon pieces, Parmesan cheese, shredded chicken, pumpkin seeds, a drizzle of flavored olive oil, etc....