Cabbage Vegetable Soup

2 medium leeks, white and lightgreen parts only
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced small
2 medium carrots, diced small
2 celery stalks, diced small
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 medium Yukon Gold potato, peeled and diced small
6 cups cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1/2 head (11/2 pounds) green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
Coarse salt and ground pepper

1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme leaves
Directions
Halve leeks lengthwise; rinse thoroughly, pat dry, and cut into 1/2-inch slices. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Add leeks and garlic and cook, stirring, until leeks begin to soften, 2 minutes. Add potato, broth, and bay leaves and bring to a boil. Stir in cabbage and season generously with salt and pepper.
Return soup to a boil, then reduce to a rapid simmer. Cover and cook until vegetables are tender, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
This recipe is from Everyday Food, December 2009