Potato, Broccoli, Leek Cream Soup

1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter 6 small leeks (about 1 3/4 pounds), white and light green parts only, thinly sliced 4 pounds large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced 1 bunch broccoli—florets coarsely chopped, stems peeled and sliced 4 cups chicken stock or low-sodium broth 2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream Salt and freshly […]

Mushroom-Artichoke Soup

1 lb fresh brown mushrooms, sliced1 lb shitake mushrooms, stemmed and sliced1 c thinly sliced shallots2 large carrots, sliced1/4 c butter3 Tbls flour1/2 tsp thyme1/2 tsp garlic powder1/2 tsp salt1/2 tsp pepper1/4 tsp crushed red pepper3 1/2 c chicken broth2 14-oz cans artichoke hearts, drained and quartered1/4 c sun-dried tomatoes, chopped1 bay leaf1 c half-n-half […]