How to cook leeks

Leeks can be cooked in many ways, here are a few popular methods:

1. Sautéing: To sauté leeks, slice them thinly and rinse them well to remove any dirt. Heat a bit of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for a minute, then add the leeks, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. You can also add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

2. Steaming: To steam leeks, fill a pot with a few inches of water and bring to a boil. Place the leeks in a steamer basket, and place the basket over the boiling water. Cover the pot and steam for 5-6 minutes, or until the leeks are tender.

3. Boiling: To boil leeks, fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the leeks and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they're tender. Drain the leeks and season them with salt and pepper, or any other desired seasonings.

4. Roasting: Toss leeks with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven at 180C/350F for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.

5. Gratin: Slice leeks thinly and layer them in a baking dish with cream, butter, and cheese, such as Gruyere or Cheddar. Bake in the oven until golden and bubbly.

6. Eating raw: Leeks can also be eaten raw, they're great to add to salads, sandwiches, and smoothies.

These are just a few examples of ways to cook leeks, but you can be as creative as you want with this versatile vegetable. It's important to note that leeks can be quite tough and fibrous near the base, so it's best to remove the tough green parts and slice the white and light green parts only.

When they're in season you can buy leeks online with Fresh Farm Deliveries. We deliver to Halifax, Todmorden, Littleborough, Hebden Bridge, Haworth and surrounding areas (BD13-23, HX and OL14-15 postcodes).