Creamy Potato Leek Soup with Tarragon Drizzle

Recipe by United States Potato Board

United States Potato Board

Ingredients

Tarragon Drizzle:: 1/4cup reduced fat or fat-free mayonnaise; 6tablespoons buttermilk; 2teaspoons chopped fresh tarragon; 2teaspoons Dijon mustard; -- Salt and pepper; -- Tarragon leaves for garnish (if desired)
Creamy Potato Leek Soup:: 2tablespoons butter; 2tablespoons olive oil; 5cups leeks, cleaned and thinly sliced (white and light green parts only); 1/2cup chopped shallots; 1/2cup diced onion; 1teaspoon salt; 1/2teaspoon freshly ground pepper; 5cups reduced sodium chicken broth; 3medium (5.3 ounce) russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch cubes; 2-- bay leaves; 1slice whole wheat bread, lightly toasted and torn into small pieces; 1cup low-fat evaporated milk

To prepare drizzle: Mix all ingredients in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper. May be covered and refrigerated until ready to use.
To prepare soup: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt butter and olive oil together over medium heat. Add leeks, shallots and onions and stir to combine and coat with melted butter. Season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to medium and cook until vegetables are softened, stirring frequently, about 10 to15 minutes. Increase heat to high and add chicken broth, cubed potatoes and bay leaves. Bring mixture to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are soft and tender, 12 to 15 minutes. Remove half the potatoes and set aside. Add toasted bread and cook until bread begins to dissolve, about 5 more minutes. Remove bay leaves. Puree soup until smooth using a blender or food processor. Stir in reserved potatoes and evaporated milk. Top with Tarragon Drizzle before serving.

Recipe by United States Potato Board 2010 Recipe Contest Winner Laurie Lufkin of Essex, Mass.