Jerusalem artichokes are one of the UK’s most underrated seasonal vegetables. Nutty, gently sweet and wonderfully comforting, they shine in warming dishes that are perfect for autumn and winter. This creamy Jerusalem artichoke and leek soup is a simple yet indulgent recipe that celebrates fresh produce at its best.
Using high-quality Jerusalem artichokes from Nicol Retailer Limited, this dish is ideal for anyone looking to cook seasonally, eat well, and enjoy comforting homemade food with minimal effort.
Jerusalem artichokes are naturally high in fibre, particularly inulin, which supports digestive health and gut function. According to the NHS, increasing fibre intake can help improve digestion and support overall wellbeing, making Jerusalem artichokes a nourishing choice for seasonal, home-cooked meals.
What Are Jerusalem Artichokes?
Jerusalem artichokes are a knobbly root vegetable prized for their nutty, slightly sweet flavour and creamy texture when cooked. Despite their name, they are neither from Jerusalem nor related to globe artichokes. Instead, they belong to the sunflower family and are native to North America, where they were cultivated by Indigenous peoples long before European settlers arrived.
The name “Jerusalem artichoke” is widely believed to be a linguistic twist on the Italian word girasole (meaning sunflower), which English speakers misheard as “Jerusalem.” The plant’s tall yellow flowers closely resemble sunflowers, which adds to the confusion.
Jerusalem artichokes have a flavour often compared to:
- Chestnuts
- Hazelnuts
- Mild artichoke hearts
When cooked, they become beautifully creamy, making them ideal for:
- Soups and purées
- Roasting and gratins
- Risottos and pasta dishes
They don’t need peeling — just a good scrub — which makes them both practical and versatile in the kitchen.
A Brief History of Jerusalem Artichokes
The history of Jerusalem artichokes dates back to North America, where they were cultivated long before being introduced to Europe in the 17th century and quickly gained popularity, particularly in France and England. They were valued as a reliable crop that could grow in poor soil and harsh conditions, making them an important food source during periods of scarcity.
In the UK, Jerusalem artichokes became especially significant during wartime rationing, when they were widely grown as a hardy, nutritious vegetable that required little maintenance. Although they later fell out of favour as diets changed, they’ve made a strong comeback in recent years thanks to renewed interest in seasonal eating, heritage vegetables, and sustainable food.
Creamy Jerusalem Artichoke & Leek Soup
Ingredients
- 1 kg Jerusalem artichokes, scrubbed and roughly chopped
- 2 large leeks, washed and thinly sliced (white + light green parts only)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large potato, peeled and chopped (optional — for extra creaminess)
- 1.2 L vegetable stock (or chicken stock)
- 200 ml single cream or oat cream (optional)
- 2 tbsp tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh thyme (a few sprigs)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Crusty bread or croutons, to serve
- Optional garnish: chives, parsley, or a drizzle of truffle oil
Instructions
- Scrub the Jerusalem artichokes well — you don’t need to peel them unless the skin is very knobbly. Chop into roughly even pieces so they cook evenly.
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the onion and leeks, and cook 5–7 minutes until softened but not browned. Add the garlic and cook another minute.
- Stir in the chopped Jerusalem artichokes and potato (if using). Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and some fresh thyme leaves.
- Add the vegetable stock so it just covers the vegetables. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the Jerusalem artichokes are very tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the thyme sprigs. Use an immersion blender (or transfer in batches to a blender) and blitz to a smooth, creamy texture.
- Stir in the single cream (or oat cream) and warm through but don’t boil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Notes
Ensure you use a plant-based vegetable stock for the best depth of flavour. Gluten-Free & Coeliac-Friendly Jerusalem artichokes are naturally gluten-free, making this soup suitable for people with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance. To keep the recipe fully gluten-free:
- Use certified gluten-free stock cubes
- Check labels on cream alternatives and garnishes
- Serve with gluten-free bread or croutons if required
Nutrition
Serving Suggestion
Serve this creamy Jerusalem artichoke and leek soup hot, allowing the nutty aroma of the artichokes and gentle sweetness of the leeks to come through. Ladle into warmed bowls and finish with a light drizzle of cream or extra-virgin olive oil to enhance the soup’s silky texture. Garnish with freshly cracked black pepper, soft thyme leaves, or finely chopped chives for a fresh, herbaceous note.
For added texture and visual appeal, top with a handful of crispy roasted Jerusalem artichoke slices or golden croutons. These provide a satisfying contrast to the smooth soup and elevate it from a simple meal to a restaurant-style dish.
Bread & Sides
This soup is best enjoyed with:
- Thick slices of crusty sourdough, toasted and lightly buttered
- Warm wholegrain or rye bread, ideal for dipping
- Garlic focaccia or farmhouse rolls for a more indulgent option
To turn the soup into a complete meal, serve alongside:
- A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness
- A grilled cheese or toasted sandwich for a comforting lunch
- Roasted seasonal vegetables or a savoury tart for a satisfying supper
Entertaining & Occasions
This Jerusalem artichoke soup works beautifully as:
- A starter for dinner parties, served in smaller bowls or cups
- A cosy weeknight supper during colder months
- A nourishing make-ahead lunch, as the flavours deepen over time
It can also be served chilled in warmer months for a lighter, more refined take, making it a versatile recipe to return to throughout the year.
Whether you’re serving family, guests, or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, this soup offers comforting flavour, seasonal character and an elegant presentation — especially when made with fresh Jerusalem artichokes from Nicol Retailer Limited.
This creamy Jerusalem artichoke soup is a comforting, seasonal recipe made using fresh Jerusalem artichokes and vegetables sourced from Nicol Retailer Limited. With a naturally nutty flavour and smooth, velvety texture, this soup is ideal for autumn and winter cooking and is perfect for vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals.
Simple to prepare and rich in flavour, this recipe showcases the best of seasonal UK produce, making it a wholesome choice for home cooks looking for easy, nourishing comfort food.