When it comes to cozy meals that are easy to prepare and clean up, one-pot recipes are hard to beat. This Farro and Leek Soup is a prime example of how a single dish can deliver big on flavor, simplicity, and nourishment.
Perfect for busy nights or leisurely weekends, this recipe captures the heartiness of farro and the sweetness of leeks in a comforting, wholesome soup.
With minimal effort and a pressure cooker to streamline the process, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.
Why Farro & Leek Are a Perfect Pair
Farro, with its nutty flavor and chewy texture, provides the perfect base for this soup. This ancient grain has long been cherished in Mediterranean and Italian kitchens for its versatility.
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When paired with the tender, mild sweetness of leeks, the combination becomes irresistible. The addition of pancetta (or bacon, if preferred) brings a savory depth that ties all the flavors together.
This balance makes the soup satisfying and comforting with every spoonful.
Customizing the Recipe for Your Diet
One of the great aspects of this Farro and Leek Soup is how easily it can be adapted to meet various dietary preferences. Whether you’re vegetarian, gluten-free, or looking for a lighter version, this one pot recipe has you covered.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the pancetta for mushrooms or an extra helping of hearty vegetables like squash or zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Gluten-Free Twist: Substitute farro with quinoa or rice for a naturally gluten-free alternative while maintaining a hearty texture.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Use riced cauliflower in place of farro to lower the carbohydrate content while keeping the soup filling and flavorful.
Perfect for Meal Prep & Leftovers
This one pot recipe isn’t just a wonderful dinner idea—it’s also a great option for meal prep.
- Storage Tips: Keep the soup in the refrigerator for up to five days, or freeze it for longer storage. Reheat on the stove or microwave for a fast and comforting meal.
- Batch Cooking: Double the recipe to stock your freezer with ready-to-eat meals. This makes it perfect for meal prep enthusiasts or those wanting to plan ahead.
Garnishes & Serving Suggestions
A bowl of Farro and Leek Soup is delightful on its own, but a few simple garnishes can take it to the next level. Consider these serving ideas to add a touch of flair and extra flavor:
- Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Cheese: Grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano adds a salty richness that complements the soup perfectly.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete and satisfying meal.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or preparing ahead for the week, this one pot recipe is sure to become a household favorite.
Simple Farro & Leek Soup One-Pot Recipe
Equipment
- Instant Pot (or electric pressure cooker)
- blender
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole farro
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil plus extra for drizzling
- 3 ounces pancetta chopped fine
- 1 pound leeks ends trimmed, chopped, and washed thoroughly
- 2 carrots peeled and chopped
- 1 celery rib chopped
- 8 cups chicken broth plus extra as needed
- 1/2 cup minced fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
Prep Farro:
- Pulse farro in a blender until about half the grains are cracked into smaller pieces (about 6 pulses). Set aside.
Sauté Ingredients:
- Set Instant Pot to the highest sauté or browning function. Heat olive oil until shimmering.
- Add pancetta and cook until lightly browned (3 to 5 minutes).
- Stir in leeks, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Combine and Cook:
- Stir in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add farro and stir to combine.
- Lock the lid in place and close the pressure release valve. Select high pressure and cook for 8 minutes.
Release Pressure and Finish:
- Turn off the Instant Pot and perform a quick pressure release. Carefully remove the lid.
- Stir the soup, adjust seasoning as needed, and drizzle with extra olive oil. Sprinkle with parsley and freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.