Clinton Kelly'S Irish Potato And Leek Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

extra virgin olive oil
2 leeks (washed and sliced)
1 onion (diced)
2 stalks celery (chopped)
1 garlic clove (minced)
2 cups milk
4 cups chicken stock
1 bay leaf
4 yukon gold potatoes (peeled and cubed)
salt & freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons parsley, fresh (chopped)
1/2 cup half-and-half
4 slices country bread (toasted golden brown)
4 slices cheddar cheese (Irish)
1 cup bacon (fried crisp and chopped into small pieces)

Preparation

In a large stock pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, leeks, celery, and garlic, and cook until all have softened and become fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the stock, milk, bay leaf, and potatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are tender, about 25 minutes. Stir in the parsley and half and half. Allow to cool slightly. In batches, puree in a blender.
To make croutons, preheat broiler and place cheese slices on toasted bread. Broil until cheese is melted and browned in spots, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Serve soup with Irish Cheddar Croutons and sprinkled with bacon.