Last Updated on April 26, 2026 by Lisa Keys
This no cream Bacon Potato and Leek Soup is silky smooth and makes for a perfect appetizer.
The Oscars go to Clint Eastwood, Bradley Cooper, and American Sniper. I love all three! You probably aren't surprised, since I am the proud mother of a US Navy Corpsman who served with a scout sniper platoon.
When I went to see the movie, many family members asked, "Did you cry?" No tears here. In fact, I left the theater feeling more proud than ever. I feel immense gratitude for men like my son and Chris Kyle.
Truthfully, I hoped the movie would clarify why William chose to extend his military service. I wanted to understand why he pursued scout sniper training and chose to deploy again. What drives a man to return to a place where he faces constant gunfire and the risk of explosions? I still wonder why someone doesn't just come home once their military obligation ends.
These men answer a higher calling to defend and protect our freedom. No one can fight that drive. They have a job to do, and for whatever reason, that work remains unfinished until they decide it is done.
It is tragic that these Marines, sailors, and soldiers survive such terror only to return to the United States and die in inexplicable ways. We must take better care of our veterans. The movie American Sniper makes that necessity perfectly clear.
I hope the movie wins some awards, but in the meantime, I have a winning recipe for you to try. This leek potato soup with bacon comes from my sweet friend, Mary. She is the first neighbor to greet us when we moved into our new home. She always brings over delicious homemade gifts, and this soup is no exception.
I adapted the recipe only slightly from the cookbook The Governor's Table. A woman named Roma Reuther receives credit for contributing the original recipe to the book.
Bacon Potato and Leek Soup
Ingredients
- 4 leeks
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons canola oil
- 3 medium potatoes peeled, sliced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- white pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons flour or 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 quart skim milk divided
- Garnishes: finely chopped chives crisp cooked bacon, shredded cheese.
Instructions
- Trim leek roots and trim tops leaving about 2 ½-inches of green. Cut a cross through root end and thoroughly wash removing any sand/dirt. Slice leeks finely.
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat. Add leeks and onion, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and taking on a golden color.
- Add potatoes, broth, salt and pepper. Cover and simmer for 40 minutes.
- Puree in a blender or food processor; return to pot.
- Whisk flour or cornstarch with ½ cup of milk.
- Add to pot with remaining milk, stirring constantly for 5 minutes.
- Taste and correct seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Strain soup through a fine sieve to insure a super smooth texture, if desired.
- Soup can be served warm or chilled topped with garnishes.
Carol says
The movie was excellent and William was definitely on my mind while watching it. I'm hoping it wins some awards too! The Afghanistan pictures tell a story of what he went through and I agree more support for these vets should be a priority! Missing that boy of yours! xoxo
Lisa says
We will never stop missing him and can only feel grateful for having him in our lives for as long as we did. Have to pay it forward and thank our Vets whenever we can
merryapassiontopray says
I wish I could have met your son. Thank you for sharing him with us through this blog. His smile, his service, his love for his mom would have warmed my heart.
My husband was surprised when I said I'd watch American Sniper. It made a huge impact on me! I gained insight on how patriotic and passionate an American Sniper can be. I actually want to watch the movie again and that is so unlike me. There is something in that movie that touches me deeply. If American Sniper doesn't win an Oscar I will be surprised, it definitely won my heart!
Lisa says
Merry-when he was a boy he would accompany to many a recipe cook-off. Wish our paths had crossed earlier. He was my good luck charm and you would have loved him for nothing other than his sweet kindness and compassion. I am not surprised that you were touched in your heart by the movie.
Sallie says
Lisa, A lovely written story. You have a gift! I have not yet seen the movie but it is on the list. We need more messages like yours and the movie. Fit for awards to defend our liberty.
Lisa says
Thank you. I hope you get to see the movie.
Diane Barnard says
Lisa,
As always, a beautiful sentiment spoken with so much grace. I just came home from learning to snowshoe. Cynthia and Erica took me around Lake Elise and of course we paused at Will's bench, took a pic and thought of Will <3 Have not seen the movie yet but I too love Clint Eastwood. I grew up watching him as Rowdy Yates on Rawhide! I think of you often Lisa, and Will, and the way you honor him everyday with your words, your love and your life.
Lisa says
Love the Clint Eastwood trivia--he really has such a long history of Hollywood greatness and very happy you are snowshoeing to Will's Bench. Hope you warm up on some good soup.
Tracy says
You write so beautifully. I never saw the picture of the vehicle William was in. We saw the movie and I am rooting for the movie as well as Bradley Cooper. Yes, these men and women have a calling-their courage and selflessness are truly amazing.
Lisa says
Bradley Cooper is too cute!! William took lots of photos in Afghanistan--some so beautiful of the people and sunsets. Thank you for the kind comments.
Krista says
I'm making this as I type. It will be good on a frigid day. We're going to have it with grilled smoked cheddar and bacon sandwiches. (Soup and a sandwich- one of Aidan's favorites)
My husband and oldest son saw the movie, my son actually has seen it three times. As the daughter of a veteran (at 75 my father continues to volunteer at the VA) we have great admiration for all the men and women who selflessly serve everyday.
I'm sure your courageous son is happy knowing that you share your story with so many others who need strength on this unimaginable journey. Thank you
Lisa says
The thought of biting into that grilled cheese sandwich is making me hungry. We are lucky to have men like your dad. Having lived it he obviously understands the needs of his brothers and sisters. Like Chris Kyle he is trying to make life better for those who served. Give him a hug from me!
paulajeancuisine says
Beautiful post-I'm touched, as always. xoxo
Lisa says
Thank you for stopping by and leaving such a sweet comment. You lift me up.