Leek and broccoli soup with smoked haddock

Method
Prep:10min  ›  Cook:30min  ›  Ready in:40min 

1. Heat the oil in a large, heavy-based saucepan over a medium heat. Add the leeks and stir around for about 5 minutes until soft, but not coloured.
2. Stir in the milk, then add the potatoes and broccoli and freshly grated nutmeg to taste. Slowly bring to the boil, then reduce the heat to low and leave to simmer for 15–20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
3. Purée the soup in the pan using a hand-held blender, or ladle into a blender or food processor and process until smooth. If using the latter, return the soup to the saucepan and reheat gently. Add a little more milk if needed to thin the consistency.
4. Add the haddock and simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until it is cooked through and flakes easily. Season to taste with freshly ground black pepper and more nutmeg if liked, to taste. Salt shouldn't be necessary as the smoked haddock is quite salty. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and sprinkle with chives.

cook's tip

The soup can be cooked and blended up to the end of step 3 in advance, then reheated with the smoked haddock added shortly before serving.