Ingredients

1tbspbutter or olive oil

1large leek,thinly sliced, dark green parts discarded

3clovesgarlic,minced

2lbsRusset potatoes,peeled and roughly diced

2pears,cored and diced

4cupschicken broth,or vegetable broth

1tbspfresh rosemary,finely chopped

½cupheavy cream

Salt and black pepper,to taste

Preparation

Heat butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the white and light-green parts of the leek, and saute for 5 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally.

Add garlic, potatoes and pears and saute for an additional 2 minutes. Add broth and chopped fresh rosemary and bring to a boil.

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Use an immersion blender to puree the soup. Or transfer to a blender in small batches and pulse until pureed.

Return to saucepan and stir in heavy cream. Season generously with salt and freshly-cracked black pepper. Serve immediately.