Potato, leek & fennel soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
  
• 3 large leeks, white and light green parts sliced thin
  
• 1 fennel bulb, cored and sliced thin, fronds reserved for garnish
  
• 2 celery stalks, sliced thin
  
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
  
• 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
  
• 1 - 1 1/4 pounds russet potatoes, scrubbed and chopped into 1/2 inch pieces (optionally peeled)
  
• 3 - 3 1/2 cups vegetable broth
  
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
  
• 2 pieces extra thick cut turkey bacon
  
• freshly ground black pepper
  

Directions

1. In a medium-sized heavy bottom pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add leeks, fennel, celery, garlic, and salt and cook until vegetables soften, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add in potatoes and give it a stir.
2. Add in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer soup for 25-30 minutes, until potatoes are tender.
3. Let soup cool slightly, then puree using an immersion blender or food processor. Stir in heavy cream. If too thick, add a bit more broth. Adjust salt to taste.
4. In a small saucepan, cook bacon until slightly crispy. Cut into ½ inch pieces and set aside.
5. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with bacon, fennel fronds, and freshly ground black pepper.