Cock-a-Leekie Soup (kah-kuh-LEE-kee soop)
Traditional Scottish Chicken Soup
Warm your heart with the classic comfort of Cock-a-Leekie Soup, a time-honored Scottish recipe. This wholesome soup, blending tender chicken with the subtle sweetness of leeks, is a testament to Scotland's love for simple, hearty fare.
Recipe Directions
Clean out the chicken and place in a pot of water which is boiled and allowed to simmer for an hour. Add some of the leeks and half of the onion and some vegetable stock. After about an hour remove the chicken and keep the stock. Take the chicken meat of the bone. After straining the stock into a pot, add the remainder of the leeks and onion and add the barley. Cook for a further thirty minutes. Season to taste. Add the chicken meat to the soup and then serve.History
Cock-a-Leekie Soup, dating back to the 16th century, is one of Scotland's oldest traditional soups. Originally served with prunes, the recipe has evolved over time, but its comforting essence remains a staple of Scottish cuisine. Often served on special occasions and family gatherings, this soup symbolizes warmth and comfort, bringing together generations around the dining table.
Ingredients
1 chicken about 3lb10 chopped leeks
1 large chopped onion
4 finely chopped carrots
Pearl Barley
Ground pepper and salt
Vegetable stock