Wash leeks thoroughly, making sure to get between the layers. You can then chop them up and steam, boil, braise, roast, stir-fry or sauté them. Leeks are often used as a base ingredient in soups and stews, along with carrots, onion and celery. The green tops of the young plant are much milder in flavour and can be shredded raw into salads.
Leeks are a vegetable of the allium plant family, which also includes onions and garlic. They’re great used as an alternative to onions, and are especially good cooked down slowly and stirred through pasta, or served with vinegary, tangy flavours (such as the classic dish leeks vinaigrette).
Arrange the leeks in one layer in a baking tray or earthenware dish and roast in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes until golden and almost caramelized. Keep your eye on them – I’ve seen many chefs burn baby leeks when cooking them this way and it drives me mad!
WHEN ARE LEEKS IN SEASON?
Leeks are in season from August to April.
HOW TO STORE LEEKS
Leeks can be kept in a cool dark place, but they will keep for longer in the fridge.
Sweet Leek Carbonara | Jamie’s Meat-Free Meals
FAQ
How does Gordon Ramsay cook leeks?
What part of the leek do you not use?
Why do you soak leeks in water?
How do you cook cheesy leeks in the oven?
Season, then spoon it all into a dish, or leave in the pan. Stir in the cream and splash of water, grate over the Cheddar and Parmesan, then pull the brie into parts and bomb those on top. Pop in the oven for 15 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. Jazz up your side dish offering with this easy cheesy leeks recipe from Jamie Oliver.
How do you cook leeks?
Leeks can be cooked in many ways. They can be boiled, roasted, braised, sauteéd or steamed. They are extremely versatile and can be served as a side or used in recipes. Leeks are typically quick and easy to cook. However, they require gentle cooking as the layers are thin and can burn.
How do you cook leeks in a crock pot?
Trim, wash and slice the leeks, about 2cm thick, at an angle. Peel and slice the garlic, then pick the thyme leaves. Put a large casserole-type pan (ideally one you’d be happy to serve in) on a medium heat and add a drizzle of oil, the butter, thyme leaves and garlic. Cook until it begins to bubble and fry, then stir in the leeks.
How do you cook baby leeks?
Preheat your oven to 200°C/400°F/gas 6. I like to serve 4 or 5 baby leeks per person, depending on their size. Lightly trim both ends and peel back the first or second layer of leaves and discard. Drop the leeks in a pan of boiling salted water for 2 to 3 minutes to soften – this is called blanching.