In brief
- Wash leeks thoroughly: sand often hides between the leaves.
- Cooking in rings takes 5 to 8 minutes, whole or halved stalks take 10 to 15 minutes.
- Leeks are also delicious braised or sautéed in butter; this makes them sweet and tender.
- Use only a small amount of water to keep the flavor in the leeks.
Leeks fit into almost everything, from soups to mashed potato dishes to braised side dishes. The only real pitfall is the sand between the leaves. Wash them well and the rest is easy.
How do you clean leeks properly?
Cut the leek lengthwise halfway through and rinse it under running water to wash out the sand between the leaves. Trim off the dark green, tough end. If you want rings, cut them after washing so the sand is already removed.
How long should leeks be cooked?
Leek rings are done in 5 to 8 minutes, whole or halved stalks need 10 to 15 minutes. Use a small amount of water or broth, not too much, so the flavor stays in the leeks instead of boiling away.
Can you braise or sauté leeks?
Absolutely, and this may be the tastiest way. Gently sauté or braise leeks in butter until they wilt and become sweet. They then form a great base for quiches, sauces, and stews. For guidance on which pan to use for what, see our pan guide. For a smaller portion, a saucepan works perfectly.
