Cawl Cennin Cymreig

Background and History

Cawl Cennin Cymreig is a traditional Welsh leek soup, often enjoyed as a comforting dish that celebrates Wales' national vegetable, the leek. Historically, leeks have been a significant part of Welsh cuisine since ancient times. The leek is a symbol deeply rooted in Welsh history and culture, thought to be worn by soldiers in battle for recognition purposes. This dish, with its simple yet robust flavors, stands as a tribute to this humble yet iconic ingredient.

Ingredients

• Leeks - 3 tablespoons chopped and 2 leeks whole
• Potatoes - 2, peeled and cubed
• Carrots - 2, chopped
• Onions - 1, finely chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Chicken broth - 4 cups
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Cream - 1 cup

Preparation

1. Begin by thoroughly washing the leeks to remove all the soil. Chop three tablespoons worth of leek for initial sautéing and slice the remaining two whole leeks into thin rounds.
2. Peel and cube the potatoes, ensuring they are of uniform size to cook evenly.
3. Chop the carrots and finely chop the onions and garlic.

Cooking Process

1. In a large soup pot, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped leek, onion, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Once the broth is simmering, add the sliced leeks, potatoes, and carrots to the pot.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until the potatoes and carrots are tender, approximately 20-25 minutes.
7. Stir in the cream, allowing it to heat through before serving. Ensure you do not boil the soup after the cream is added to prevent curdling.
8. Use a blender to blend part of the soup until smooth, then return it to the pot to create a thicker, more robust texture.
9. Re-season with salt and pepper if necessary.

Enjoying Cawl Cennin Cymreig

Cawl Cennin Cymreig is best enjoyed in a cozy setting, served hot with crusty bread or traditional Welsh rarebit on the side. This hearty soup brings warmth and comfort, making it an ideal dish for chilly days. To enhance your dining experience, pair the cawl with a glass of light white wine or a cold Welsh ale. Whether enjoyed solo or shared with loved ones, this dish captures the essence of Welsh culinary heritage.