This fresh-tasting soup can be prepared with scallions or green garlic (which is harvested before the cloves have matured and has a subtle garlic flavor). A swirl of buttermilk mixed with fresh goat cheese at the end adds a nice tang.
Ingredients
4 4 bunch scallions--white and tender green parts, cut into 1-inch lengths, green tops thinly sliced
1 leek, white and tender green parts only, thinly sliced
1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
2 cup onion, thinly sliced
3 cup salt
2 cup freshly ground white pepper
¾ cup dry white wine
2 oz water
heavy cream
buttermilk
fresh goat cheese, 1/4 cup, softened
Directions
1. In a large pot, heat the oil. Add the white and tender green parts of the scallions, along with the leeks, fennel and onion; season with salt and white pepper. Cook over low heat, stirring, until the vegetables begin to soften, 15 minutes. Add the wine and boil over high heat until reduced to a few tablespoons, 12 minutes. Add the water and cream and bring to a simmer. Cook until the vegetables are very tender and pale green, 15 minutes. Add the scallion green tops and cook just until softened, 2 minutes.
2. Working in batches, puree the soup in a blender and return it to the pot. Season with salt and white pepper.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk the buttermilk with the goat cheese. Ladle the soup into shallow bowls, drizzle with the creamed goat cheese and serve.
