Pumpkin Soup with Leeks, Kale & White Beans

2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
1 large leek, sliced in 1/4-inch half moons (1 1/2–2 cups)
2 celery stalks, chopped small
1 apple, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh sage, finely chopped or 1 teaspoon dried
1/2 teaspoon salt (more or less to taste)
1/4 teaspoon white pepper (black pepper works too)
2 cups kale, coarsely chopped
1/4 cup white wine (substitute 1-2 teaspoons champagne vinegar or apple cider vinegar)
3 cups veggie broth or chicken stock
1 1/2 cups cannellini beans cooked or canned
1 1/2 cups fresh pumpkin puree or one 15 oz. canned pumpkin (see notes)
Serve with crusty bread or croutons, goat cheese or flavorful Leek Oil!

Sauté leeks and butter or olive oil in a medium stock pot, over medium heat, letting them wilt and soften about 5 minutes.

Add celery, apples, sage, salt and pepper. Sauté 3-5 minutes more.

Add kale and white wine. Stir until kale begins to wilt about 2 minutes or so.

Add broth, white beans and pumpkin puree.

Bring to a simmer and let cook for about 20 minutes.

Finish with crumbled goat cheese if desired, or flavorful leek oil and crusty bread!

from: www.feastingathome.com