Ingredients

  • 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced (about 4 ounces)
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • 1 celery stalk, sliced
  • 1 small leek (white and light-green parts only), split lengthwise and sliced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 small shallots, roughly chopped (about 1/2 cup)
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
  • 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth, plus more as needed
  • 1 15-ounce jar whole roasted chestnuts
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Creme fraiche, snipped chives, and grated nutmeg, for garnish

Method

  • In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook bacon until rendered and crisp, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Pour off all but 1 teaspoon of the fat. In the same saucepan, melt the butter, and add the carrot, celery, leek, and shallots. Season with salt and pepper. Cook over medium-low heat until softened and golden brown, 8 to 10 minutes.
  • Add broth and chestnuts to the saucepan. Bring to a simmer, partially cover, and cook until all the ingredients are soft, about 30 minutes. Let cool slightly, and puree in batches in a blender until very smooth. Return to saucepan, add the cream, and heat thoroughly, adding stock to thin if needed. (A spoon should not leave a trail on the surface of the soup.)
  • Season with salt and pepper and ladle into warmed shallow bowls. Garnish with the reserved bacon, a dab of creme fraiche, chives, and a pinch of nutmeg.