Vegan Potato and Leek Soup

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons vegan butter, optional (see note 1)
• 2 medium leeks or 1 large onion, chopped, rinsed, and drained (see note 2)
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3-4 tablespoons gluten-free or regular all purpose flour, optional (see note 3)
• 3 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into ½” dice (see note 4)
• 4 cups vegan chicken broth (see note 5)
• 1 large bay leaf (or 2 small leaves)
• 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or substitute 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• Freshly cracked black pepper to taste
• 14 1/2 oz can full fat coconut milk (see note 6)
• Chives or green onion
• Vegan cheddar shreds
• Vegan bacon bits