Cock-a-Leekie Soup

This celebrated old recipe of the British Isles is common across the Atlantic, and we would do well to know it on the American side. This adaptation of the substantial classic needs only a crusty dark loaf and plenty of ale to make a warming meal. The prunes lend a winy, mysterious taste and creamy feel to the dish— not the sweetness you might expect—and the leeks deepen in flavor and become silky.