Scottish Cock-a-Leekie Soup Delight

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Scottish Cock-a-Leekie Soup Delight.

1. Step 1

   Begin by trimming the dark green tops off the leeks and thoroughly washing the white sections.

2. Step 2

   Set the cleaned leek bottoms aside.

3. Step 3

   In a spacious pot, layer the cleaned leek tops at the bottom, then place the whole chicken on top.

4. Step 4

   Add a bay leaf, halved garlic, prunes, and three quarts of cold water.

5. Step 5

   Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil over high heat, then lower the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently for one hour and fifteen minutes, occasionally using tongs to submerge the chicken in the liquid.

6. Step 6

   While the chicken simmers, prepare the leek bottoms by trimming the root ends and slicing them in half lengthwise.

7. Step 7

   Cut the leeks crosswise into half-inch pieces and place them in a bowl of cold water to dislodge any dirt.

8. Step 8

   After a few minutes, lift the leeks out, shake off the excess water, and refrigerate them until needed.

9. Step 9

   Once the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove it from the pot using two forks, allowing the liquid to drain from the cavity.

10. Step 10

    Transfer the chicken to a bowl, separate the meat from the skin and bones, and shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.

11. Step 11

    Refrigerate the shredded chicken until you are ready to use it.

12. Step 12

    Return the skin and bones to the pot and continue simmering for an additional hour.

13. Step 13

    Set a colander over a bowl and strain all solids from the broth into the colander.

14. Step 14

    Discard the solids and pour the broth back into the pot.

15. Step 15

    Add half of the sliced leeks, salt, pepper, and rice to the pot.

16. Step 16

    Let it simmer for one hour, stirring occasionally and skimming off any fat that rises to the surface.

17. Step 17

    If the soup reduces too much, feel free to add more water.

18. Step 18

    Finally, stir in the remaining sliced leeks, shredded chicken, and thyme.

19. Step 19

    Allow the mixture to simmer over medium-low heat for twenty minutes.

20. Step 20

    Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as desired before serving.

21. Step 21

    Enjoy the comforting aroma and warmth of this delightful dish, perfect for sharing with loved ones.