Creamy Vegan Potato Leek Soup

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1 tablespoon olive oil or ¼ cup water (for water saute)

3 medium leeks (use white and light green parts only)

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 ¼ lbs. potatoes, cubed ½ inch (peeled or with skin on)

1 ½ teaspoons dried thyme or Herbes de provence

1 bay leaf

4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

Mineral salt, to taste

¼ cup chopped parsley, to garnish

Leeks, start by removing and discarding the root ends and thick dark green parts. Cut the leeks in half lengthwise and rinse each half under cold water, pulling apart the layers to remove any sand or debris nestled inside, slice the leeks crosswise. Alternatively, slice the leeks, then put in a colander and wash well under running water. Should yield 4 – 5 cups. Cut potatoes into ½ inch cubes. Feel free to peel the potatoes or leave the skin on (I left the skin on).
In a large dutch oven or pot, heat the oil/water over medium heat. Add the leeks and cook, stirring frequently, until soft and wilted, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic in the last 5 minutes of cooking the leeks. Adjust the heat as necessary so as not to brown the leeks.
Add the potatoes, broth, bay leaves, herbs, salt to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer on low for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Remove the bay leaves, and puree the soup using a hand-held immersion blender until smooth (or leave a little chunky). Alternatively, use a regular blender to puree the soup in batches. Taste for seasoning.
Serve warm with chopped parsley, crispy chickpea croutons, and a side of crusty artisan bread.