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Leeks
Inventory, 12 ct : 70.78
This item was last sold on : 03/22/23
Description/Taste
Leeks grow straight up from the ground, the flat leaves growing up from a cylindrical, rounded bulb, overlapping each other in a concentric pattern. Many growers pile dirt around the nearly one-inch base bulb, to lengthen the white portion of the bulb by limiting sunlight and therefore chlorophyll production. Because of this practice, Leeks collect a lot of dirt between their leaves. The tops of the leaves, referred to as ‘flags,’ are dark green with a bluish tint, and tough. They fan out at the top of the stalk, like the fronds of a palm tree. The flat Leek leaves can grow up to nearly a meter in height, the bulb sitting shallow in the dirt, around 8 centimeters (3 to 4 inches) long. The edible part of the leaf stalk averages of 30 to 35 centimeters (13 inches) in height, up to 5 centimeters in diameter, and is a light green color. Leeks have a flavor that is milder than an onion, with a slight sweetness.
Seasons/Availability
Leeks are available year-round with a peak season in the fall and through the spring.
Current Facts
Leeks are large members of the Allium family related to garlic and onions, and are botanically classified as Allium ampeloprasum, and sometimes Allium porrum. They are biennial plants (requiring two growing seasons) but are typically grown and harvested as an annual. Leeks are known around the world as English Leeks, European Leeks, Kurrat Leek and Wild Leek. The Leek has been used for thousands of years for both culinary and medicinal purposes. They are often used as a herb or flavoring agent, but can also be served whole as a vegetable.
Nutritional Value
Leeks are a rich source of vitamins B6 and K, as well as iron, manganese and dietary fiber. Leeks are high in the nutrient folate, which is beneficial for women, especially during pregnancy. The highest concentration of folate can be found in the white parts of the Leek. Leeks also contain insulin and sulfur which help protect cells and reduce bad cholesterol respectively. Leeks contain prebiotics, which helps regulate healthy gut bacteria and helps digestion.
Applications
Leeks have been an important part of the cuisine in Europe and the British Isles for centuries. Leek is the main ingredient in two well-known soups: Scotland’s cock-a-leekie soup and France’s crème vichyssoise. From these well-regarded recipes, we know that Leeks pair well with lemon, cream, poultry and bacon. Leeks are also often found paired with cream and potatoes in the classic, potato Leek soup. Leeks can be eaten raw on salads or mixed into a chicken or tuna salad. Leeks are generally sautéed in oil or butter to soften or “sweat” before adding to pizzas, pastas, egg dishes, risotto, or served on their own as a side. Chopped Leeks are used in soups, stir-frys, or braised with carrots and celery. Leeks are also a popular tart or pastry filling. The darker, top section of the leaves is not eaten; this section of the leaf is usually discarded or kept for use in stocks. The very base of the bulb is cut off, just above the small fringe of roots. Cleaning is important, whether preparing Leeks whole or chopped. The easiest way to clean Leeks is to cut in half lengthwise and chop thinly. Put chopped Leeks in a bowl and rinse with fresh, cool water, changing out the water until no debris remains. Dry the Leeks well before preparing. To use the Leek whole, insert the tip of a knife just above the last leaf margin and cut straight through lengthwise, fanning the Leek open to expose the spaces between the layers. A second cut can be made crosswise, to expose more layers if necessary. To store, chopped Leeks can be blanched and frozen. Whole Leeks will store in the refrigerator for up to a week, wrapped well to keep the aroma at bay.
Ethnic/Cultural Info
In Cornwall, England, Leeks are paired with chicken inside a pocket of dough known as a “pasty.” Pasties are considered Cornwall’s “national” dish, and the chicken and Leek combination is a popular light filling also used in a variety of savory pastries and pies. A Leek is the national symbol of Wales, in the United Kingdom, and is worn by the people and by every soldier in the Welsh regiment on St. David’s Day celebrated annually on March 1st. The legend says that during the 6th century, St. David told his soldiers to wear a Leek on their helmets ahead of a successful battle against the invading Saxons. Wearing a Leek was considered a symbol of luck. Others believe the lore behind the Leek as the national emblem dates back to the early Druids who used the Leek as a cure for the common cold, as an antibacterial and diuretic, and for relief from the pains of childbirth. It is also an ingredient in the traditional Welsh broth, cawl. In 1984, British authorities featured a Leek on the reverse side of the British pound coin, which represented the Welsh part of the United Kingdom. It is represented on patches, posters and other items depicting Welsh pride as well.
Geography/History
Leeks are native to the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East and have been used for food and medicine for over 3,000 years. The ancient Egyptians first cultivated Leeks and ate them during great feasts. The Romans were believed to have brought Leeks to Europe and then to Britain. Today they are cultivated in many regions around the world with cool temperate climates, including North America, Asia, and from the British Isles through Europe and into northern China. In France, Leeks are readily available and inexpensive (and used much like green onion in the United States). There are many different varieties of Leeks; the Scottish, Giant Musselburgh, the French Otina, and Pancho are a few named varieties. The cultivars differ in seasonal availability and growth habit, some displaying more narrow stalks or wider leaves. Western European varieties are typical of the ones found in the United States, at most grocery stores and farmer’s markets. Bulgarian and Turkish varieties, with longer, thinner stalks are not typically found in the United States.
Featured Restaurants
Restaurants currently purchasing this product as an ingredient for their menu.
| Kitchens For Good | San Diego CA | 619-450-4040 |
| Brandon Matzek- Blogger | San Diego CA | 800-221-9730 |
| La Costa Resort & Spa Main Kitchen | Carlsbad CA | 760-930-7063 |
| The Cork and Craft | San Diego CA | 858-618-2463 |
| UCSD Food & Nutrition Department Hillcrest | San Diego CA | 619-380-9840 |
| Crown Point Catering | San Diego CA | 619-223-1211 |
| Estancia Adobe | San Diego CA | 858-550-1000 |
| Kappa Sushi | San Diego CA | 858-566-3388 |
| Mister A's | San Diego CA | 619-239-1377 |
| Hotel La Jolla & CUSP -CLK | La Jolla CA | 858-459-0261 |
| Giaola | Carlsbad CA | 858-266-9303 |
| Third Corner Ocean Beach | San Diego CA | 619-223-2700 |
| Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District | El Cajon CA | 619-644-7585 |
| Black Radish | San Diego CA | 619-775-7412 |
| InterContinental Vistal Kitchen | San Diego CA | 619-501-9400 |
| UCSD La Jolla (Pritikin Intensive) | San Diego CA | 858-657-6473 |
| Nolita Hall | San Diego CA | 619-618-8820 |
| Cliffhanger Cafe Menu | San Diego CA | 858-452-9858 |
| Alejandra's Cocina | Carlsbad CA | 858-500-5075 |
| Half Door Brewing | San Diego CA | 619-655-7459 |
| Barbarella La Jolla | La Jolla CA | 858-454-7373 |
| Glenbrook Health Center | Carlsbad CA | 760-704-1000 |
| Regulars Wanted Beanery | Ramona CA | 619-719-8634 |
| The Compass | Carlsbad CA | 760-434-1900 |
| Gravity Heights Restaurant and Brewery | San Diego CA | 858-551-5105 |
| Wine Vault & Bistro | San Diego CA | 619-295-3939 |
| Top of the Market | San Diego CA | 619-234-4867 |
| Rancho Valencia | Del Mar CA | 858-756-1123 |
| Michele Coulon Dessertier | San Diego CA | 858-456-5098 |
| Crudo Cevicheria & Oyster Bar | San Diego CA | 619-313-9127 |
| Mitch's Seafood | San Diego CA | 619-316-7314 |
| Little Frenchie | Coronado CA | 619-522-6890 |
| The Smoking Goat | San Diego CA | 858-232-4220 |
| The Kitchen at MCASD | La Jolla CA | 619-894-2051 |
| Alila Marea Beach Resort | Encinitas CA | 805-539-9719 |
| Sepulveda Meats & Provisions | San Diego CA | 619-501-1878 |
| Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe | Rancho Santa Fe CA | 858-759-6063 |
| Catania La Jolla | La Jolla CA | 858-551-5105 |
| Saiko Sushi-North Park | San Diego CA | 619-886-6656 |
| Woods Kitchen Foods | San Diego CA | 619-719-6924 |
| Toast Catering | San Diego CA | 858-208-9422 |
| The Shores | La Jolla CA | 858-459-8271 |
| Hilton Garden Inn - Homewood Suites San Diego | San Diego CA | 619-696-6300 |
| La Jolla Country Club | San Diego CA | 858-454-9601 |
| Darshan Bakery (Encinitas) | Encinitas CA | 858-925-7223 |
| Isola Pizza Bar | San Diego CA | 619-564-2938 |
| Southwestern Yacht Club | San Diego CA | 619-222-0438 |
| The Field Irish Pub & Restaurant | San Diego CA | 619-232-9840 |
| Miho | San Diego CA | 619-365-5655 |
| Pop Pie Co. (Kitchen) | San Diego CA | 619-414-8495 |
| Mesa College | San Diego CA | 619-388-2240 |
| Hash House A Go Go | San Diego CA | 951-764-0605 |
| Herb & Sea | Encinitas CA | 858-587-6601 |
| Full Moon | San Diego CA | 619-233-3711 |
| ZAMA Bar & Restaurant | San Diego CA | 619-595-1450 |
| Addison Del Mar | Del Mar CA | 858-350-7600 |
| La Costa Glen North | Carlsbad CA | 760-704-1436 |
| Trust Restaurant | San Diego CA | 609-780-7572 |
| Pamplemousse Grill | Solana Beach CA | 858-792-9090 |
| Lime in the Coconut | Chula Vista CA | 619-820-0961 |
| Et Voilà! French Bistro | San Diego CA | 858-610-8784 |
| Little Lion | San Diego CA | 619-519-4079 |
| US Grant Hotel Grill | San Diego CA | 619-232-3121 |
| Kingfisher | San Diego CA | 619-861-8074 |
| Jake's Del Mar | Del Mar CA | 858-755-2002 |
| Fish 101 Cardiff | Cardiff CA | 619-753-7139 |
| Lauberge Del Mar | Del Mar CA | 858-259-1515 |
| Azuki Sushi Lounge | San Diego CA | 619-238-4760 |
| Farm Fresh Meals | Vista CA | 760-707-2383 |
| Wolfies Carousel | San Diego CA | 909-477-1291 |
| ALCE 101 | Solana Beach CA | 619-885-8075 |
| Peace Pies | San Diego CA | 619-618-6960 |
| Bistro du Marche by Tapenade | La Jolla CA | 858-551-7500 |
| Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center | National City CA | 619-434-4281 |
| Cocina de Barrio Point Loma | San Diego CA | 858-349-2313 |
| Avant | San Diego CA | 858-675-8505 |
| San Diego Yacht Club | San Diego CA | 619-758-6334 |
| Orfila Vineyards & Winery | Oceanside CA | 760-738-6500 |
| Lodge at Torrey Pines Main | San Diego CA | 858-453-4420 |
| Harumama Noodles & Buns (Encinitas) | Encinitas CA | 858-886-9909 |
| Giuseppe Restaurants & Fine Catering | San Diego CA | 619-838-8268 |
| Wayfarer Bread | La Jolla CA | 805-709-0964 |
| Valley View Casino & Hotel (Black&Blue) | Valley Center CA | 760-291-5500 |
| Piatti | San Diego CA | 858-454-1589 |
| Solare Ristorante Lounge | San Diego CA | 619-270-9670 |
| Farmer and The Seahorse | San Diego CA | 619-302-3682 |
| Bellamy's Restaurant | Escondido CA | 760-747-5000 |
| Harumama (Little Italy) | San Diego CA | 619-269-7122 |
| Born & Raised | San Diego CA | 619-944-1631 |
| Bahia Resort Hotel | San Diego CA | 858-488-0551 |
| Madera Kitchen of Mexico | Vista CA | 760-784-1224 |
| Belching Beaver Brewery Tavern and Grill | Vista CA | 760-509-4424 |
| Starlite Kitchen | San Diego CA | 619-358-9766 |
| Herb & Wood | San Diego CA | 520-205-1288 |
| Georges at the Cove | San Diego CA | 858-454-4244 |
| Wormwood | San Diego CA | 619-573-0289 |
| The Glen at Scripps Ranch | San Diego CA | 858-444-8500 |
| Harumama Sushi & Ramen (Ocean Beach) | San Diego CA | 858-886-9909 |
| Born & Raised (Events) | San Diego CA | 619-550-5412 |
| Green Dragon Tavern & Museum | Carlsbad CA | 760-797-5579 |
| Spirit of Adventure Sportfishing | San Diego CA | 619-454-9711 |
| Dolce Pane & Vino | Del Mar CA | 858-832-1518 |
| Sorority Cuisine - Achio | San Diego CA | 310-402-6195 |
| Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens | Escondido CA | 915-861-2297 |
| Bleu Boheme | San Diego CA | 619-255-4167 |
| Four Seasons Foods Catering | San Diego CA | 619-876-6986 |
| UCSD Food & Nutrition Department La Jolla | San Diego CA | 858-761-1269 |
| Park Commons - ARE | San Diego CA | 619-295-3172 |
| Eclipse Chocolate | San Diego CA | 619-831-5170 |
| The Pearl Hotel | San Diego CA | 877-732-7573 |
| Viejas Casino | Alpine CA | 619-659-1774 |
| Mesa Agricola | Carlsbad CA | 707-758-6650 |
| Vista Valley | Vista CA | 760-758-2800 |
| Sugar Bear Enterprises | San Diego CA | 925-383-3623 |
| Polaris Supreme | San Diego CA | 619-390-7890 |
| Morning Glory | San Diego CA | 619-629-0302 |
| Nick & G's Restaurant | Rancho Santa Fe CA | 858-771-1871 |
| Nobu | San Diego CA | 619-814-4124 |
| Secret Sister | San Diego CA | 619-281-0718 |
| Huntress | San Diego CA | 619-955-5750 |
| Lumi | San Diego CA | 619-955-5750 |
| Ju-Ichi | San Diego CA | 619-800-2203 |
| Wonderland Ocean Pub | San Diego CA | 619-255-3358 |
| Terra Restaurant | San Diego CA | 619-293-7088 |
| Rancho Santa Fe Golf Club | Rancho Santa Fe CA | 858-756-1582 |
| Paradisaea Restaurant | La Jolla CA | 732-915-6669 |
| La Costa Glen South | Carlsbad CA | 760-704-1000 |
| Tartine | Coronado CA | 619-435-4323 |
| Tahona (Kitchen) | San Diego CA | 619-573-0289 |
| Coast Catering | Escondido CA | 619-295-3173 |
| Garbatella Osteria Bar | Chula Vista CA | 619-651-1185 |
| Vino Carta Solana Beach | Encinitas CA | 858-353-2815 |
| Harumama Teriyaki & Bao | Carlsbad CA | 760-637-5737 |
| US Grant Hotel Main | San Diego CA | 619-232-3121 |
| Cocina De Barrio | San Diego CA | 760-840-1129 |
| Tom Hams Light House | San Diego CA | 619-291-9110 |
| The Go Go Truck | San Diego CA | 401-837-1740 |
| Olivewood Gardens -Donation | National City CA | 619-434-4281 |
| Del Mar Country Club | Rancho Santa Fe CA | 858-759-5500 x207 |
| The Haven | San Diego CA | 619-964-3778 |
| Ridgeview Health Center | San Diego CA | 858-293-3950 |
| Blue Ocean La Jolla | La Jolla CA | 858-999-0323 |
| Darshan Bakery (Del Mar) | Del Mar CA | 858-925-7223 |
| 264 Fresco (Kitchen) | Carlsbad CA | 760-720-3737 |
| Zinque | San Diego CA | 559-281-2485 |
| Reata Glen | Ladera Ranch CA | 949-545-2250 |
| Parkhouse Eatery | San Diego CA | 619 295 7275 |
| Azucar | San Diego CA | 619-523-2020 |
| Fish 101 | Encinitas CA | 760-943-6221 |
| The Lab Restaurant | Oceanside CA | 619-861-8299 |
| Bread & Cie Café | San Diego CA | 619-683-9322 |
| Third Corner Encinitas | Encinitas CA | 619-417-9251 |
| Oyster and Pearl Bar Restaurant | La Mesa CA | 619-303-8118 |
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Leeks. One
is easiest, three is harder.Recently Shared
People have shared Leeks using the Specialty Produce app for iPhone and Android.
Produce Sharing allows you to share your produce discoveries with your neighbors and the world! Is your market carrying green dragon apples? Is a chef doing things with shaved fennel that are out of this world? Pinpoint your location annonymously through the Specialty Produce App and let others know about unique flavors that are around them.
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Venice Farmers Market
Smith farms
Near Venice, California, United StatesAbout 6 days ago, 3/17/23 
Specialty Produce
Specialty Produce
Near San Diego, California, United States1929 Hancock St Suite 150 San Diego CA 92110 619-295-3172 https://specialtyproduce.com About 12 days ago, 3/11/23 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Her Produce 
Rancho Santa Fe Farmers Market
Near Fairbanks Ranch, California, United StatesAbout 25 days ago, 2/26/23 Sharer's comments : At Antonio Farm 
Santa Monica Farmers Market
Her Produce
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 29 days ago, 2/22/23 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Her Produce 
Del Mar Farmers Market
Near Del Mar, California, United StatesAbout 40 days ago, 2/11/23 Sharer's comments : At Antonio Farm 
Santa Monica Farmers Market
Her Produce
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 43 days ago, 2/08/23 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Her Produce 
Specialty Produce
Specialty Produce
Near San Diego, California, United States1929 Hancock St Suite 150 San Diego CA 92110 619-295-3172 https://specialtyproduce.com About 54 days ago, 1/28/23 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Tutti-frutti Organics 
Virginia Park Farmer's Market
Fresno Evergreen
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 54 days ago, 1/28/23 
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods Market
Near Upper Woburn PlaceEuston Road (Stop L), United Kingdom49 Parkway, London NW1 7PN, United Kingdom About 57 days ago, 1/25/23 
Santa Monica Farmers Market
Her Produce
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 57 days ago, 1/25/23 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Her Produce 
Marks and Spencer
Marks and Spencer
Near Upper Woburn PlaceEuston Road (Stop L), United Kingdom5 Liverpool Rd, London N1 0RR, United Kingdom About 74 days ago, 1/09/23 
Virginia Park Farmer's Market
Fresno Evergreen
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 75 days ago, 1/07/23 
Virginia Park Farmer's Market
Fresno Evergreen
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 75 days ago, 1/07/23 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Fresno Evergreen 
Santa Monica Farmers Market
Fresno Evergreen
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 92 days ago, 12/21/22 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Fresno Evergreen 
Poway Farmers Market
Martinez Farms
Near Poway, California, United StatesNipomo, CA About 117 days ago, 11/26/22 
Santa Monica Farmers Market
Finley Farms
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 120 days ago, 11/23/22 
Specialty Produce
Specialty Produce
Near San Diego, California, United States1929 Hancock St Suite 150 San Diego CA 92110 619-295-3172 https://specialtyproduce.com About 123 days ago, 11/20/22 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Tutti Frutti Organics 
Kazakhfilm microdistrict, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Ecofreshmarket
California, United StatesKazakhfilm microdistrict, Almaty, Kazakhstan About 126 days ago, 11/18/22 Sharer's comments : Leeks of Almaty region, Kazakhstan 
Rancho Santa Fe Farmers Market
Martinez Farms
Near Rancho Santa Fe, California, United StatesNipomo, CA About 165 days ago, 10/09/22 
Specialty Produce
Specialty Produce
Near San Diego, California, United States1929 Hancock St Suite 150, San Diego, CA 92110 619-295-3172 https://specialtyproduce.com About 221 days ago, 8/14/22 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Tutti Frutti Organics 
Specialty Produce
Specialty Produce
Near San Diego, California, United States1929 Hancock St Suite 150, San Diego, CA 92110 619-295-3172 https://specialtyproduce.com About 228 days ago, 8/07/22 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Tutti Frutti Organics 
Nuovo Mercato Trionfale
Near Rome, ItalyAbout 246 days ago, 7/21/22 
Specialty Produce
Near San Diego, California, United StatesAbout 256 days ago, 7/10/22 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Schaner Farms 
NaturaSì
Near Rome, ItalyAbout 291 days ago, 6/06/22 
Little Italy Farmers Market
Gaytan Family Farm
Near San Diego, California, United StatesRiverside, CA About 299 days ago, 5/28/22 
Poway Farmers Market
Martinez Farms
Near Poway, California, United StatesNipomo, CA About 341 days ago, 4/16/22 
coop 5 terre
coop 5 terre
Liguria, ItalyVia Colombo, 196, 19017 Riomaggiore SP About 363 days ago, 3/26/22 
Specialty Produce
Near San Diego, California, United StatesAbout 375 days ago, 3/13/22 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Tutti Frutti Organics 
Esentai Gourmet
California, United Statesпроспект Aль-Фараби 77/8, Алматы 050060 About 378 days ago, 3/11/22 Sharer's comments : Leeks at Esentai Gourmet 
Santa Monica Farmers Market
Fresno Evergreen
Near Santa Monica, California, United StatesAbout 393 days ago, 2/23/22 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Fresno Evergreen 
Leucadia Farmers Market
Near Encinitas, California, United StatesAbout 403 days ago, 2/13/22 
Specialty Produce
Specialty Produce
Near San Diego, California, United States1929 hancock st SD CA 92110 619-295-3172 About 432 days ago, 1/15/22 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Her Produce at Specialty Produce 
Specialty Produce
Near San Diego, California, United StatesAbout 445 days ago, 1/02/22 Sharer's comments : Leeks from Tutti Frutti Organics 
Scripps Ranch Farmers Market
Golden Heart Family Farms
Near Poway, California, United StatesSan Bernardino, CA About 497 days ago, 11/11/21 
Waitrose & Partners
Waitrose & Partners tenterden
England, United KingdomRecreation Ground Road Sayers Lane 10, Tenterden TN30 6BW, United Kingdom 441580765168 https://waitrose.com About 542 days ago, 9/28/21 
Singh Meadows
Near Tempe, Arizona, United StatesAbout 705 days ago, 4/17/21 |
