Potatoes used in Potato Leek Soup

[jmax]

What is the best kind of potato to use in Potato Leek Soup?

[TampaAurora]

I second the Yukon Gold potatoes. I will occasionally do a few Russets in with the Yukons.

[arifa]

i puree my soup and make it with only butter, potatoes, leeks, salt, and water. i have tried both russets and yukon gold and i think the yukon golds have a nicer flavor. russets make the soup too "potatoey" whereas the yukon golds seem to balance nicely with the leeks.

[clamscasino]

Yukon Gold potatoes will also "melt" into the base of the soup. I like to use a combo of red potatoes and Yukon golds. That way you get the best of both worlds.

[todao]

Russets tend to fortify the base of soups like Leek soup. So I agree that they are a suitable choice. You might want to consider red potatoes if you want something that will maintain its shape and color. "New Potatoes", so named because they are harvested early in the season and sometimes called "cream potatoes", are less starchy than russet and works well in soups.

[chef chicklet]

I agree, russets, that is if you're going to puree the soup. Which is delicious hot or cold by the way!

[chez cherie]

russets, because you want them to break down into the stock, for that thick creaminess. if you use new potatoes, boiling potatoes (or others with thin smooth skin), they will tend to hold their shape. good for some things, but not for this soup.