Scottish Cock-a-Leekie Soup

Prepare the Leeks: Cut off the dark green tops of the leeks and wash them thoroughly. Set aside the leek bottoms. (5 minutes)

Infuse the Broth: In a large pot, place the cleaned leek tops. Add the whole chicken, bay leaf, garlic cloves, dried plums, and 3 quarts of cold water. Bring to a simmer over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and gently simmer for 1 hour and 15 minutes, occasionally pressing the chicken under the liquid. (1 hour 20 minutes)

Prepare Leek Bottoms: While the chicken simmers, trim the root ends off the leek bottoms and slice them in half lengthwise. Cut crosswise into ½-inch slices. Transfer to a large bowl, fill with cold water, and toss to loosen any dirt. Gently remove the leeks, shake off excess water, and place in another bowl. Refrigerate until needed. (20 minutes)

Debone the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot using two forks. Allow the liquid to drain from the cavity and place the chicken in a bowl. Separate the meat from the skin and bones. Tear the meat into bite-sized pieces and refrigerate until needed. (15 minutes)

Enrich the Broth Further: Return the chicken skin and bones to the pot and simmer gently for an additional hour to deepen the flavor of the broth. (1 hour)

Strain the Broth: Place a colander over a large bowl. Use a skimmer spoon to transfer all solids from the broth to the colander. Discard the solids and return the strained broth to the pot. (10 minutes)

Simmer with Leeks and Rice: Add half of the sliced leeks, salt, pepper, and rice to the pot. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for 1 hour, skimming off any fat if desired and adding more water if the liquid reduces too much. (1 hour)

Final Touches: Add the remaining sliced leeks, chicken, and thyme to the pot. Simmer over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. (20 minutes)

Serve: Ladle the Cock-a-Leekie Soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly ground black pepper and chopped fresh chives, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!