Cock-a-leekie soup is a staple dish in many Scottish homes, and if you’ve been brought up eating Scottish food, there is a high chance you’ll be familiar with this warming Scottish chicken and leek soup. Traditionally served in the winter and named ‘Scotland’s National Soup’, cock-a-leekie is a thick and flavoursome soup consisting of leeks, chicken and rice traditionally garnished with prunes.

The first printed recipe for Cock-a-leekie soup dates back to 1598, and despite being deemed a Scottish dish, there is a high chance it began its life in France. However, by the 16th Century, the soup had made its way to Scotland, and leeks replaced French onions. The basic recipe, a chicken and leek soup, has remained the same; the chicken is boiled whole with vegetables, and prunes are used to garnish, creating the filling broth still enjoyed today.

What is Cock a Leekie Soup?

Cock-a-leekie soup is a traditional Scottish dish that consists of chicken, leeks, and a blend of herbs and spices. The name “cock-a-leekie” refers to the use of chicken (“cock”) and leeks (“leekie”) as the main ingredients. This hearty soup has been a staple in Scottish homes for centuries, with the first printed recipe dating back to 1598.

A Traditional Scottish Chicken and Leek Soup

Cock-a-leekie soup is a classic example of Scottish cuisine, showcasing the country’s love for wholesome, comforting dishes. The combination of succulent chicken and tender leeks creates a flavourful broth that has become a beloved part of Scottish culinary heritage. This traditional Scottish soup is often enjoyed as a warming and satisfying meal, particularly during the colder months.

Origins and History of Cock a Leekie Soup

Although the dish is considered a quintessential Scottish delicacy, the origins of cock-a-leekie soup can be traced back to France. The earliest known recipe for a similar soup dates back to the 16th century, where it was known as “potage aux poireaux” or leek soup. However, as the dish made its way to Scotland, local cooks adapted the recipe, replacing the French onions with the more readily available Scottish leeks, and adding chicken to create the distinctive cock-a-leekie soup that is enjoyed today.

Ingredients for the Perfect Cock a Leekie Soup Recipe

The key ingredients for a traditional cock-a-leekie soup recipe include:

Chicken: The Star Ingredient

No cock-a-leekie soup would be complete without the star of the dish – chicken. Traditionally, a whole chicken is used, simmered in the broth to infuse the soup with a rich, savoury flavour. The chicken adds a comforting and hearty element to the Scottish specialty.

Leeks: The Quintessential Scottish Vegetable

Leeks are the quintessential vegetable in cock-a-leekie soup, lending their distinctive flavour and texture to the broth. These versatile Scottish greens bring a subtle sweetness and a touch of elegance to the dish, making them an indispensable ingredient.

Prunes: The Secret Ingredient

While not commonly associated with savoury dishes, prunes actually play a vital role in the traditional cock-a-leekie soup recipe. They are added towards the end of the cooking process, providing a subtle sweetness and helping to balance the richness of the chicken and leeks.

Seasonings and Aromatics

To enhance the flavours of the cock-a-leekie soup, a variety of seasonings and aromatics are used, such as black pepper, bay leaves, and thyme. These ingredients infuse the broth with a harmonious blend of flavours, creating a truly authentic and comforting Scottish dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Cock a Leekie Soup

Making a traditional cock a leekie soup is a straightforward process that yields a comforting and flavourful Scottish dish. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create an authentic chicken and leek soup at home:

1. Start by preparing the chicken. Place a whole chicken in a large pot and cover it with cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the chicken simmer for 60-90 minutes, until the meat is cooked through.
2. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool. Once it’s cool enough to handle, shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.
3. In the same pot, sauté the leeks in a bit of butter or olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the shredded chicken back to the pot, along with chicken broth, rice, thyme, bay leaves, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, until the rice is tender.
5. In the final 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the prunes to allow them to heat through.
6. Taste the Scottish soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.
7. Ladle the hot cock a leekie soup into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create a delicious and authentic traditional cock a leekie soup that captures the essence of Scottish cuisine.

Variations and Adaptations

While the traditional cock-a-leekie soup recipe calls for a whole chicken, there are several variations and adaptations you can make to this Scottish classic. Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian option, want to add some extra heartiness with potatoes or rice, or are using up leftover chicken, these adaptations can help you put your own spin on this beloved dish.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

For a vegetarian or vegan version of cock-a-leekie soup, simply omit the chicken and use a vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You can replace the chicken with diced tofu, tempeh, or even mushrooms to maintain the protein content. Leeks, along with other aromatic vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions, will still provide the base of flavour in this meatless adaptation of the Scottish soup.

Adding Potatoes or Rice

To make the soup more filling and substantial, consider adding diced potatoes or cooked rice. Potatoes can be simmered directly in the broth, while cooked rice can be stirred in towards the end of the cooking process. These additions will transform the soup into a heartier, more satisfying one-pot meal perfect for a chilly day.

Using Leftover Chicken

If you have some cooked chicken leftover from a previous meal, you can easily incorporate it into your cock-a-leekie soup. Simply shred or cube the chicken and add it to the soup towards the end of the cooking time, allowing it to heat through. This is a great way to use up any extra chicken and add even more protein to the dish.

Cock a Leekie Soup Recipe Nutrition Facts

Cock-a-leekie soup is a relatively healthy and low-calorie dish, making it a great option for those seeking a comforting yet nutritious meal. Let’s delve into the cock a leekie soup nutrition, exploring the dish’s calories and macronutrients, as well as the vitamins and minerals it provides.

Calories and Macronutrients

A typical serving of cock-a-leekie soup (approximately 1 cup or 240ml) contains around 150-200 calories, depending on the specific ingredients used and the preparation method. The soup is relatively low in fat, with around 5-8 grams of fat per serving, most of which is the healthy unsaturated variety from the chicken and olive oil.

In terms of macronutrients, cock-a-leekie soup provides a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and a small amount of fibre. A serving can contain 15-20 grams of protein, primarily from the chicken, as well as 15-20 grams of carbohydrates, primarily from the leeks, rice, or potatoes (if included). The fibre content is typically around 2-3 grams per serving, coming from the vegetables and any added grains.

Vitamins and Minerals

Cock-a-leekie soup is also a good source of several important vitamins and minerals. The leeks, chicken, and any added vegetables contribute significant amounts of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as the B vitamins. The soup also provides minerals such as iron, calcium, and potassium, making it a nutritious and well-rounded meal.

Overall, the cock a leekie soup nutrition profile makes it a comforting and healthy choice, providing a balance of macronutrients and a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. Whether enjoyed as a standalone dish or as part of a larger meal, this traditional Scottish soup can be a delicious and nourishing addition to your culinary repertoire.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Cock-a-leekie soup is traditionally served as a main course, often accompanied by classic Scottish dishes and ingredients. Some traditional serving suggestions include:

Traditional Accompaniments

To create a truly authentic Scottish meal, pair your cock-a-leekie soup with traditional accompaniments such as crusty bread, oatcakes, or a side salad. The hearty, comforting flavours of the soup pair beautifully with the simple, rustic nature of these traditional Scottish staples.

Modern Twists and Garnishes

While the classic cock-a-leekie soup is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with modern twists and garnishes to add a contemporary flair to this traditional dish. Try topping the soup with crispy bacon bits, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, or a dollop of crème fraîche for a creamy contrast. You could also serve the soup alongside roasted vegetables or a side of mashed potatoes for a more substantial meal.

No matter how you choose to serve and pair your cock-a-leekie soup, the key is to embrace the comforting, hearty flavours and the rich heritage of this beloved Scottish dish.

Tips for Perfect Cock a Leekie Soup Every Time

To ensure you make a delicious and authentic cock-a-leekie soup every time, consider these helpful tips for making the perfect Scottish soup:

1. Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for a whole, free-range chicken to achieve the traditional Scottish cooking flavour and texture.
2. Slow and Steady Simmering: Allow the soup to simmer gently for 1-2 hours, allowing the flavours to meld and the chicken to become tender.
3. Slice the Leeks Evenly: Ensure the leeks are cut into consistent, thin slices to achieve the perfect texture in your cock-a-leekie soup.
4. Add Prunes at the Right Time: Stir in the prunes towards the end of the cooking time to preserve their sweetness and texture in the traditional recipe.
5. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the soup as it cooks and season with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices to achieve the desired flavour balance.

By following these simple tips for making cock-a-leekie soup, you’ll be well on your way to creating an authentic and delicious Scottish culinary delight that will warm your soul and satisfy your tastebuds.

Conclusion

Cock-a-leekie soup is a true embodiment of Scottish culinary heritage, a comforting and flavourful dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. From its French origins to its quintessential Scottish adaptation, this chicken and leek soup has become a beloved staple in many Scottish homes. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant leeks, and the unexpected addition of prunes creates a uniquely satisfying and hearty soup that warms the soul.

Whether it’s served as a hearty main course or as a comforting starter, cock-a-leekie soup remains a beloved Scottish cuisine classic. Its rich, savoury broth and melt-in-your-mouth ingredients make it the perfect comfort food for those chilly Scottish winters. As you savour each spoonful, you can almost feel the warmth and cosiness of a traditional Scottish home.

For those seeking a taste of Scotland’s culinary heritage, cock-a-leekie soup is a must-try. Its timeless appeal and ability to bring people together make it a cherished part of Scottish culture, a traditional soup that continues to delight and nourish generations of Scots and their guests.

FAQ

What is Cock a Leekie Soup?

Cock-a-leekie soup is a traditional Scottish dish that consists of chicken, leeks, and a blend of herbs and spices. The name “cock-a-leekie” refers to the use of chicken (“cock”) and leeks (“leekie”) as the main ingredients.

What are the key ingredients in Cock a Leekie Soup?

The key ingredients for a traditional cock-a-leekie soup recipe include chicken, leeks, prunes, rice or barley, and a variety of herbs and spices.

How do you make Cock a Leekie Soup?

To make a classic cock-a-leekie soup, you’ll need to follow a step-by-step process, including simmering the chicken, adding the leeks and other ingredients, and garnishing with prunes.

Are there any variations or adaptations of Cock a Leekie Soup?

Yes, there are several variations and adaptations you can make to the traditional cock-a-leekie soup recipe, such as using vegetarian or vegan ingredients, adding potatoes or rice, or using leftover chicken.

How healthy is Cock a Leekie Soup?

Cock-a-leekie soup is a relatively healthy and low-calorie dish, making it a great option for those seeking a comforting yet nutritious meal.

What are the traditional serving suggestions for Cock a Leekie Soup?

Cock-a-leekie soup is traditionally served as a main course, often accompanied by classic Scottish dishes and ingredients, such as bread, oatcakes, or a side salad.

What tips can help you make the perfect Cock a Leekie Soup?

To ensure you make a delicious and authentic cock-a-leekie soup every time, consider tips like using high-quality ingredients, simmering the soup gently, and adjusting the seasoning to your taste.

Cock a Leekie Soup Recipe

Freya

Cock-a-leekie soup is a true embodiment of Scottish culinary heritage, a comforting and flavourful dish that has been enjoyed for centuries.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 2 hours hrs

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  

• Whole chicken
• Leeks
• Prunes
• Chicken broth
• Rice
• Thyme
• Bay leaves
• Black pepper
• Butter or olive oil

Instructions

 

• Start by preparing the chicken. Place a whole chicken in a large pot and cover it with cold water.
• Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the chicken simmer for 60-90 minutes, until the meat is cooked through.
• Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside to cool. Once it's cool enough to handle, shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.
• In the same pot, sauté the leeks in a bit of butter or olive oil until they're soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the shredded chicken back to the pot, along with chicken broth, rice, thyme, bay leaves, and black pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 20-30 minutes, until the rice is tender.
• In the final 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the prunes to allow them to heat through.
• Taste the Scottish soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.
• Ladle the hot cock a leekie soup into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Keyword Cock a Leekie Soup Recipe