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Instructions:
- Prepare the leeks: Slice the leeks in half lengthwise, rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt, then slice thinly.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent.
- Add the leeks, carrots, and potatoes. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the leeks begin to soften and everything is fragrant.
- Add liquid: Pour in the water or broth, add salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if using. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the vegetables are fully tender.
- Finishing touch: Stir in the lemon juice for brightness, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Blend (optional): For a creamy texture, you can blend the soup partially or fully. Traditional Turkish leek soup is often left chunky, celebrating the texture of each ingredient.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
A Bowl of Turkish Tradition
This leek soup isn’t just food — it’s a reminder of slow Sundays at home, of mothers and grandmothers stirring pots with care, of shared moments over simple, nourishing meals. Light yet hearty, zeytinyağlı pırasa çorbası is perfect for a quick lunch, a gentle start to dinner, or whenever your body and soul need a little comfort.
So grab a spoon, wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, and let this traditional Turkish soup do what comfort food does best — heal, warm, and nourish from the inside out.
Would you like a version of this recipe with meat or a variation with rice or bulgur, as some regional Turkish recipes include?