Overwintering: Usually have a stronger flavor — they and are harvested the season after they are planted.
Summer: Usually smaller than overwintering types.
Look for firm, smooth leeks that are white at the base and dark green toward the top. The stalks should be firm and crisp. If roots have been cut off, the base should be flat, not rounded. Avoid leeks with blemishes.
To prepare leeks, first cut off the dark green end — cut down all the way to the the pale green area. Cut off the end root and then slice the leek in half lengthwise. Then, rinse the cut leek in a cool stream of water to remove all the dirt.
This video demonstrates how to cut leeks.
Poached: Place 3 tablespoons of chicken broth in a skillet and heat for about two minutes. Place 1 pound of chopped leeks in a skillet and simmer for about 4 minutes, then add 2 more tablespoons of chicken broth. Cook for 3 minutes while stirring. Drain and toss with 3 tablespopons of olive oil and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Fry: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter, then add 3 tablespoons of minced ginger and 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic clove. Simmer. Then add the leeks to the pan stirring frequently until they are golden in color and crispy. Serve alone or as a garnish or in a soup.
Boil: Bring 2 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of salt to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add leeks and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Cook until tender enough to pierce with a fork, then remove from heat and drain. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over warm leeks and season to taste with salt and pepper or preferrered seasoning.
Wrap leeks in a paper towel and store them in a refrigerator for up to five days.
Leeks are related to asparagus and green onions.
|
Serving Size |
1 cup (89g) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nutrients |
Amount |
% Daily Value |
|
Total Calories |
54 |
|
|
Protein |
1.3 g |
2 |
|
Carbohydrates |
13g |
4 |
|
Dietary Fiber |
1.6g |
6 |
|
Total Fat |
0.3g |
0 |
|
Saturated Fat |
0g |
0 |
|
Cholesterol |
0mg |
0 |
|
Sodium |
18mg |
0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Always keep fresh produce away from raw meat and raw meat juices to avoid cross-contamination.
Follow the safe food guidelines for all fresh produce.
Follow the safe food guidelines for all fresh produce.
Scan the QR code below to view this page on your mobile device.