Tender braised leeks are a delicious delicacy that will tantalize your taste buds. These leeks have been expertly poached in a spicy liqueur, making them irresistibly tender and full of amazing flavors. Whether you enjoy them as a standalone dish or combine them with fish or roast chicken, the result is always a gastronomic delight that will leave you wanting more. Immerse yourself in the delicious combination of textures and flavors as you enjoy these tantalizing braised leeks. A true culinary masterpiece awaits you!
Ingredients
6-8 leeks
1 tsp olive oil
2 tsp coriander seeds
3 sprigs of thyme
2 bay leaves
125 ml white wine
1 garlic clove with peel, crushed
Pinch of powdered sugar
85 g green olives, very coarsely chopped (optional)
large handful of chopped flat-leaf parsley for serving (optional)
Preparation steps
Cut off the dark green part of the leek and remove the first two layers.
Halve lengthwise, but hold onto the root.
Wash the leeks under cold running water and set aside.
Put all the other ingredients except the olives and parsley in a wide, shallow pot with 200 ml water, some ground pepper and a pinch of salt.
Add the leeks to the pan, cover and heat over low heat.
Simmer gently for 20 minutes, turning occasionally, until very tender – a knife blade should fit easily.
Let cool until just warm, then stir in parsley and olives, if desired.
Serve the leek on its own with crusty bread or with fried chicken or fish.
Nutritional Information
kcal
fat
saturates
carbohydrates
Sugar
fiber
protein
Salt
65
2g
0g
7g
5g
3g
3g
0.01g
Equipment and tools
Knife
Frying pan or frying pan
Tongs
wooden spoon
Casserole dish or casserole dish
Aluminum foil
Allergen information
This recipe does not contain common allergens such as nuts, dairy or gluten. However, please check individual ingredient labels as they may vary.
Storage and leftovers
Leftover braised leeks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the leeks in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Not only are leeks delicious, they also offer numerous health benefits. When leeks are braised until tender with a combination of herbs, spices, and other healthy ingredients, they become a powerhouse of nutrients that can contribute to your overall well-being. Let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of tender braised leeks.
1. Rich in vitamins and minerals
Leeks contain a number of essential vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to your diet. They are particularly high in vitamin K, which plays a crucial role in blood clotting and bone health. Leeks also provide vitamins A, C and E as well as minerals such as potassium, manganese and iron.
2. Immune-boosting properties
Eating leeks regularly can help strengthen your immune system. They’re packed with antioxidants, including flavonoids and polyphenols, which help protect your cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. These antioxidants can also strengthen your body’s defenses against infection and disease.
3. Gut and Digestive Health
Leeks are an excellent source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. The fiber content in leeks promotes regular bowel movements, prevents constipation and supports a healthy intestinal microbiome. Additionally, the prebiotics found in leeks serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria, promoting their growth and overall digestive health.
The compound found in leeks called allicin, which is responsible for their pungent flavor, may have heart-healthy benefits. Allicin has been shown to help lower blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Leeks contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties such as kaempferol and quercetin. These substances can help reduce inflammation in the body, which can lead to a variety of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers.
By adding tender braised leeks to your meals, you can incorporate these health benefits into your diet. Whether you enjoy it as a side dish, incorporate it into soups or stews, or use it as a flavorful ingredient in various recipes, leeks provide a variety of nutrients that support your overall health and well-being.
At Cafe Gray Deluxe, the Cooking Team's dedication to culinary excellence is at the heart of every recipe we share. With a shared commitment to quality and innovation, we invite you to savor the creations of this remarkable team, one recipe at a time.
