Leek

Like onions, to which they are related, leeks are most frequently used to add flavour to various dishes, particularly stews and soups (the best known is vichyssoise, the classic cold potato and leek soup from France). Leeks have a milder and sweeter flavour than onions and a crunchy texture when cooked, making them a delicious side dish served on their own. Leeks are surprisingly nutritious, supplying more vitamins and minerals than an equal sized serving of onions or spring onions (scallions).

Leeks have long been treasured in Europe and the Mediterranean. Americans have just recently jumped on the leek bandwagon. Soups may be the most popular use of leeks, but new food combinations are bringing the leek more into the gourmet limelight. Leeks are readily available year-round in most markets these days, so if you haven't yet tried cooking them at home, it's time you enjoyed their subtle, sweet flavor.