SERVES 8
Potatoes were widely available in the Capitol but not back home in District 12. Katniss might have made this with roots instead of potatoes, and wild onions instead of leeks.
Potato leek soup is considered a gourmet delight, even though it’s quite simple to make. The potatoes and leeks naturally enhance each other’s flavors.
1 ONION, CHOPPED
4 TABLESPOONS OF BUTTER
8 POTATOES, PEELED AND CUBED
6 CUPS WATER
1 HAM BONE
1 CUP LEEKS, CHOPPED
½ TEASPOON FRESH THYME
1 CUP HEAVY CREAM
SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE
½ TEASPOON PAPRIKA
In a large pot over medium heat, cook onions in butter until soft and translucent.
Stir in potatoes, water, ham bone, leeks and the thyme.
Bring to a boil, and then reduce heat and cover.
Simmer until potatoes are tender, roughly 20–30 minutes.
Take out the ham bone and puree soup with your food processor in batches, or with a hand blender.
Return to pot and slowly fold in cream, salt, pepper and paprika. Heat on medium-low and serve.