What is leeks vegetable

Heads up — if you choose to serve them this way, look for really fresh, peak-season leeks. How you cut leeks will vary based on how you cook them. This method for how to cut leeks is the one I use most often. Then, chop off the stringy roots and dark green leaves. They add delicious oniony flavor to homemade stock. Next, continue chopping the white and light green parts. Lay them cut-side-down on your cutting board, and cut them into thin half-moons.

Now, you might find that your leeks are pretty dirty inside. Leeks are often filled with dirt and sand, so cleaning them is an important part of the cutting process. Rinse them under cool running water, tossing them to remove any dirt or debris. When the chopped leeks are clean, use a paper towel or kitchen towel to blot them dry before you start to cook.

Now you know how to cut leeks, but what about how to cook them? They add delectable flavor to homemade vegetable stock. Need some ideas? Leeks can be microwaved, boiled, steamed, stir fried or braised. Add to soups, flans, pies and braises or stews. Serve with a white or cheese sauce. Cooked cold leeks can be used in salads. As leeks are from the onion family, they can be used to give a mild onion-type taste in recipes, both raw and cooked. Click here for recipes. Leeks are a good source of folate, a source of dietary fibre, thiamin, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and contain a dietary significant amount of potassium.

They contain phytonutrients, including carotenoids and phenolic compounds. Make sure the leeks are clean and well trimmed. Lay them side by side with green ends pointing in the same direction. This makes them a welcome addition to all sorts of dishes.

When raw, leeks are crunchy and firm. Frying intensifies this crunchiness. Good news, leek lovers: The veggie is super healthy. Here are some nutritional highlights :. Pro-tip: The smaller the leek, the more flavor it probably packs.

To cut a leek , you must first trim the roots and chop off the tough, dark green part. Like anything that grows in soil, you need to wash leeks thoroughly before you eat with them. This is a bit easier to do after the leeks have been cut.

All you need to do is place the small pieces in a bowl of clean water—the dirt will settle at the bottom. Just make sure not to overcook leeks, as they can easily become mushy and unappetizing. Add them into soups toward the end of cooking, not the beginning.