Allium Vegetable | Vegan Gluten Free Low Calorie High Fiber

Leek

Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum Allergen-Free
leek

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Amaryllidaceae
  • Primary Cuisine European, French
  • Seasonality Fall-Spring
  • Source Leek plant

The Forktionary Angle

"Mastering the subtle art of building flavor, leeks are an unsung hero of the culinary world."

Definition

A mild-flavored member of the onion family, characterized by its long white base and green leaves, prized for its subtle, sweet oniony taste.

Sensory Profile

TasteMild Onion, Sweet, Earthy, Slightly Grassy
TextureTender, Silky (when cooked), Crunchy (raw)
AromaMild Onion, Fresh
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Seasonal Availability

Peak: Fall-Spring

Storage Life (Refrigerated)

Up to 2 weeks

Sulfur Compounds

Diallyl sulfide, s-methyl cysteine sulfoxide

Nutrition Facts

Per 1 medium leek (120g)
Calories61 kcal
Total Fat0.3 g
Saturated Fat0 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein1.5 g
Total Carbohydrate14.2 g
Dietary Fiber1.8 g
Total Sugars3.9 g
Calcium59 mg
Iron2.1 mg
Potassium180 mg

Chef’s Secret

Thoroughly clean leeks by slicing them lengthwise and rinsing between the layers to remove trapped dirt and grit.

Substitutions

Best Match

Green Onions (white part)

1:1

Similar mild onion flavor and appearance, but smaller.

Shallots

1:1

Milder than onion, sweeter, good for flavoring, different texture.

Yellow Onion (caramelized)

1:2

Stronger raw, but caramelized offers a sweet, mellow flavor.

Celery

1:1

For aromatic base/texture in some dishes, but lacks oniony flavor.

Buying Guide

Choose leeks with crisp, firm white and light green parts. Avoid yellowed or wilted leaves.

Flavor Pairings

Potatoes cream butter chicken fish bacon thyme white wine.

Recipes Using Leek

Small Appliance Course Main Ingredient Preparation

Creamy Vegan Potato Leek Soup

Indulge in this luxuriously creamy vegan potato leek soup, perfect for a cozy night in! Adapted from Alex Jamieson's Great American Detox Diet, this recipe is hearty, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. The subtle sweetness of leeks blends beautifully with creamy potatoes, creating a comforting and flavorful soup. Serve with crusty bread and a fresh salad for a complete and delicious meal. This detox-inspired recipe is packed with nutrients and perfect for a healthy and flavorful weeknight dinner.

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Main Dish One Dish Meal Course Main Ingredient

A Very Special Gnocchi

Indulge in this incredibly comforting and delicious gnocchi recipe! Creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, this updated classic is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Featuring crispy bacon, sautéed leeks, and a rich cheese sauce, it's a dish you'll want to make again and again. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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60 Minutes Or Less Condiments Etc Course Stove Top

Almond Crusted Salmon With Leek And Lemon Cream

Indulge in this Pacific Northwest-inspired culinary delight! Flaky salmon, perfectly crusted with crunchy almonds, is nestled in a luxurious lemon cream sauce infused with delicate leeks. This elegant dish, adapted from Bon Appétit magazine, is surprisingly easy to make and perfect for a special dinner. Serve with your favorite pilaf and salad for a complete meal. Recipe #36428 is a particularly good salad pairing!

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Main Ingredient Occasion Beginner Cook Main Ingredient

Anchovy Rolls

Ring in the New Year with these decadent Anchovy Rolls (Alici Rolls), a Southern Italian appetizer elevated to pure deliciousness! Traditionally simple, this recipe adds a creamy twist with crème fraîche and subtly sweet leeks. These savory pinwheels are perfect as an appetizer for four or a satisfying entree for two. Prepare to impress your guests with this unique and flavorful treat – the perfect pairing for a crisp Gewürztraminer!

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Inexpensive Equipment Course Low Sodium

Angel's Creamy Potato And Leek Bake

Indulge in this decadent and creamy potato and leek bake, a family favorite! Perfectly tender potatoes and subtly sweet leeks are bathed in a rich and creamy sauce. This recipe is easy to follow and delivers unbelievably delicious results – a comforting classic for any occasion. (While traditionally made with heavy cream, evaporated milk can be substituted for a lighter option.)

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Cuisine Main Ingredient Potatoes Served Cold

Anthony Bourdain's Les Halles Vichyssoise

Experience the legendary cold soup that captivated Anthony Bourdain! This refined recipe, inspired by his iconic cookbook, delivers a luxuriously creamy and subtly flavorful vichyssoise. Perfect for a sophisticated appetizer or a light yet satisfying summer meal. Get ready to savor the taste of culinary history!

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Low Carb Low In Something 30 Minutes Or Less Low Sodium

Apple Stuffed Pork Chops

Sweet and savory perfection! These juicy apple-stuffed pork chops are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Inspired by Robin Miller, this recipe features tender pork chops filled with a delicious blend of sauteed apples, leeks, herbs, and seasoned stuffing. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to impress!

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German Pork Main Dish Preparation

Authentic Schweinebraten German Pork Roast Bavarian Style

Experience the magic of Bavaria with this authentic Schweinebraten recipe! This incredibly juicy and tender pork roast boasts a rich, flavorful gravy, traditionally served with potato dumplings and sauerkraut. While the recipe may seem lengthy, the process is surprisingly simple and rewarding, resulting in a show-stopping dish perfect for a special occasion or a comforting family meal. Get ready to impress your guests with this culinary masterpiece!

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Preparation Seasonal Cuisine Time To Make

Avocado Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Experience a burst of creamy avocado and savory goat cheese in these elegant stuffed portobello mushrooms. A simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The earthy mushrooms pair beautifully with the richness of the avocado and a crunchy walnut topping.

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Main Ingredient Presentation Equipment American

Bab Leves Hungarian Bean Soup

Experience the hearty warmth of Bab Leves (pronounced bab leh-vesh), a traditional Hungarian bean soup! This soul-satisfying recipe, simmered to perfection, boasts rich, savory flavors and tender beans. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting family meal.

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Occasion Cuisine Pasta Rice And Grains Occasion

Baked Chicken Lemon And Pea Risotto

Experience the effortless elegance of Donna Hay's Baked Chicken Lemon & Pea Risotto! This one-pan oven bake simplifies classic risotto, resulting in a creamy, comforting dish bursting with fresh lemon and vibrant peas. Perfectly browned chicken and tender leeks create a symphony of flavors. A simple, yet impressive recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Technique Cuisine European Dutch

Bami Goreng Indonesian Stir Fried Noodles

Unlock the secrets of authentic Indonesian Bami Goreng, a beloved dish with roots in Holland! This recipe is surprisingly easy – prep ahead for company or a quick weeknight meal. Customize the spice level with sambal to your liking. Get ready to savor the vibrant flavors of stir-fried noodles, tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a medley of crisp vegetables. Garnish with refreshing lychees and crunchy kroepoek for a truly unforgettable experience.

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Course Main Ingredient Beef Time To Make

Beef And Leek Casserole

This hearty Beef and Leek Casserole is surprisingly delicious despite its simplicity and few ingredients! Tender beef, sweet leeks, and aromatic vegetables simmer in a rich red wine gravy, creating a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make masterpiece!

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Main Ingredient Low Protein Side Dishes Vegetables

Blt Smashed Potatoes

Inspired by a Rachael Ray recipe, these BLT Smashed Potatoes are a delicious and surprisingly healthy twist on a classic! Crispy bacon, savory leeks, and juicy tomatoes combine with fluffy potatoes for a satisfying meal that's lighter than you'd expect. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.

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Free Of Something Appetizers Ramadan Cuisine

Falafel For Charishma

Craving delicious, authentic falafel without the eggs? This recipe is for you! Charishma's Eggless Falafel is bursting with flavor and surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend project, this recipe delivers crispy, savory falafel patties every time. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy-to-follow, egg-free delight!

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Beans Soups Stews Preparation Course

Low Fat Gorgonzola White Bean Soup

This lightened-up Gorgonzola white bean soup is surprisingly creamy and decadent without all the fat! Simple ingredients combine to create a comforting and flavorful bowl perfect for a chilly evening. The subtle sweetness of the vegetables pairs beautifully with the sharp, tangy Gorgonzola, making this soup a true taste sensation. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

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One Dish Meal Main Ingredient Meat Comfort Food

Smoked Sausage Cassoulet

Indulge in this rich and flavorful Smoked Sausage Cassoulet, a classic French recipe elevated for the modern palate. This hearty one-pot wonder is bursting with smoky sausage, tender beans, sweet apples, and fragrant herbs. The recipe's slow-simmered magic develops incredible depth, making it taste even better the next day! Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

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