Spinach and leek soup with a soft poached egg and a cheese croute
Discover the comfort and simplicity of a classic dish with this guide to making Spinach and Leek Soup with a Soft Poached Egg and a Cheese Croute. A culinary delight that brings together the freshness of vegetables with the richness of a perfectly poached egg and the crispy, cheesy goodness of a croute.
Spinach and Leek Soup with a Soft Poached Egg and Cheese Croute: A Brief Overview
This soup blends the mild, onion-like flavor of leeks with the earthy tones of spinach, complemented by a soft poached egg and a crunchy cheese croute. It's a vegetarian dish that promises a symphony of flavors and textures in every spoonful.
Cultural or Historical Context
Originally crafted by James Tanner for "Ready Steady Cook," this dish represents a modern twist on traditional vegetable soups, adding a layer of luxury with the egg and cheese croute. It reflects a blend of simple ingredients and sophisticated cooking techniques, showcasing the evolution of soup from a humble meal to a gourmet delight.
Ingredients for the Spinach and Leek Soup
To recreate this savory soup, you'll need:
- Olive oil (30ml)
- A quarter of an onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
- 1 leek, sliced
- Spinach (two handfuls)
- Chicken or vegetable stock (300ml)
- Freshly grated nutmeg (½ teaspoon)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- For the cheese croute: a slice of white bread, cheddar cheese (55g), and 1 poached egg for serving.
Preparation Instructions
The process involves sautéing onions and garlic, adding leeks and stock for a brief simmer, and then blending with spinach until smooth. A cheese croute made from toasted bread topped with melted cheddar accompanies the soup, which is served with a poached egg nestled on top.
Storage and Reheating
This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little water or stock if necessary to adjust consistency. Prepare the cheese croute and poach the egg fresh when serving reheated soup.
Nutritional Information
This soup offers a good balance of vitamins and minerals, particularly from the spinach, which is rich in Vitamin A and iron. The cheese croute adds calcium and protein, while the poached egg provides high-quality protein and vitamins D, B2, and B12.
FAQ about the Spinach and Leek Soup with a Soft Poached Egg and Cheese Croute
- Can I use frozen spinach? Yes, but ensure it's thoroughly thawed and excess water is squeezed out before use.
- Is there a vegan alternative for the egg and cheese? Yes, you can omit the egg and use a vegan cheese substitute for the croute.
- Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, the soup can be made in advance and refrigerated. However, the cheese croute and egg are best prepared fresh.
Final thoughts: This Spinach and Leek Soup with a Soft Poached Egg and Cheese Croute is a testament to the beauty of blending simple ingredients to create a dish that's comforting, nutritious, and delightfully complex in flavor. Serve it as a standalone meal or as part of a more elaborate dining experience to enjoy a taste of gourmet home cooking.
Original recipe by James Tanner from Ready Steady Cook.