Leek Broth

The leek is the national symbol of Wales and each year on St David’s Day the soldiers of The Welsh Regiment wear a leek in their cap badges. According to legend the tradition began when Saint David - who was about to lead his men into battle against the Saxons - ordered that each man fix a leek on his helmet. This was done to tell friend from foe when in the thick of battle.

The leek may be a symbol of St David, but it is also fine vegetable and makes a very nice soup.

Fred Watson 2009.

Leek Broth

Ingredients

The water used to boil a ham hock or a joint of bacon makes an excellent stock for the soup.

1½ pints of stock

8 oz of potatoes

8 oz of carrots

3 leeks

I small turnip

2 tablespoons of oatmeal

Salt and pepper

Method

Peel and dice the potatoes, carrots and turnip.

Slice the leeks

Put the potatoes carrot and turnip into the stock

Bring to the boil and boil for 10 minutes

Add the leeks

Mix oatmeal with a little cold water and add

Bring the soup to the boil and boil until the vegetables are soft,

About 10 to 15 minutes