Leeks
Estimated Inventory, 12 ct : 48.11
This item was last sold on : 02/21/25
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.
| Nobu | San Diego CA | 619-814-4124 |
| WineSellar & Brasserie | San Diego CA | 858-450-9557 |
| Animae | San Diego CA | 619-925-7908 |
| Little Lion | San Diego CA | 619-519-4079 |
| Crest Cafe | San Diego CA | 619-295-2510 |
| Cocina de Barrio Encinitas | Encinitas CA | 760-840-1129 |
| Harvest Kitchen | Vista CA | 619-709-0938 |
| Inn at Rancho Santa Fe (Banquet) | Rancho Santa Fe CA | 858-381-8289 |
| Third Corner Ocean Beach | San Diego CA | 619-223-2700 |
| Mothership | San Diego CA | 858-342-3609 |
| Stake Chophouse & Bar | Coronado CA | 619-522-0077 |
| Viewpoint Brewing Co. | Del Mar CA | 858-205-9835 |
| Coya Peruvian Secret | Del Mar CA | 619-295-3172 |
| University Club | San Diego CA | 619-234-5200 |
| The Lab Restaurant | Oceanside CA | 619-861-8299 |
| Bishop School | San Diego CA | 858-459-4021 |
| Huntress | San Diego CA | 619-955-5750 |
| Jake's Del Mar | Del Mar CA | 858-755-2002 |
| Fox Point Farms (Haven) | Encinitas CA | 619-892-0553 |
| The Lion Share | San Diego CA | 619-564-6924 |
| Wildland | Carlsbad CA | 619-385-0914 |
| UCSD Food & Nutrition Department La Jolla | San Diego CA | 858-761-1269 |
| Choi's | San Diego CA | 858-900-1224 |
| Born & Raised | San Diego CA | 619-944-1631 |
| Bar Ella | San Diego CA | 858-808-2286 |
| Gravity Heights Restaurant and Brewery | San Diego CA | 858-551-5105 |
| Barra Oliba | San Diego CA | 610-310-5110 |
| Carte Hotel | San Diego CA | 619-365-1858 |
| Costa Brava | San Diego CA | 858-273-1218 |
| Adobo House | San Diego CA | 619-990-8340 |
| Jeune Et Jolie | Carlsbad CA | 858-231-0862 |
| The Loma Club | San Diego CA | 619-222-4653 |
| Kappa Sushi | San Diego CA | 858-566-3388 |
| Wayfarer Bread | La Jolla CA | 805-709-0964 |
| Hotel Republic San Diego | San Diego CA | 951-756-9357 |
| Giuseppe Restaurants & Fine Catering | San Diego CA | 619-436-7006 |
| Peace Pies (Encinitas) | Encinitas CA | 619-618-6960 |
| La Jolla Country Club | San Diego CA | 858-454-9601 |
| Miho | San Diego CA | 619-365-5655 |
| Urban Kitchen Catering | San Diego CA | 619-276-8803 |
| Cocina de Barrio NP | San Diego CA | 858-349-2313 |
| Barbarella La Jolla | La Jolla CA | 858-454-7373 |
| The Cottage | La Jolla CA | 858-454-8408 |
| Cocina De Barrio | San Diego CA | 760-840-1129 |
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| Pier 32 Water Front Grill | National City CA | 619-718-6240 |
| InterContinental Banquet Kitchen | San Diego CA | 619-501-9400 |
| Ju-Ichi | San Diego CA | 619-800-2203 |
| Blue Ocean Sushi & Grill (UTC) | San Diego CA | 858-886-9909 |
| US Grant Hotel Grill | San Diego CA | 619-232-3121 |
| Mission Bay Yacht Club | San Diego CA | 858-488-0501 |
| Pacific Coast Grill | Solana Beach CA | 858-794-4632 |
| Fish 101 Cardiff | Cardiff CA | 619-753-7139 |
| Ridgeview Health Center | San Diego CA | 858-293-3950 |
| Fishery | San Diego CA | 858-272-9985 |
| Blue Water Estate Services | Rancho Santa Fe CA | 858-720-9831 |
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| Little Frenchie | Coronado CA | 619-522-6890 |
| Rancho Bernardo Inn (Avant) | San Diego CA | 858-675-8505 |
| Prager Brothers Artisan Bread | Carlsbad CA | 760-445-9536 |
| The Pearl Hotel | San Diego CA | 877-732-7573 |
| Green Acres Campus | San Diego CA | 858-450-9907 |
| UCSD Food & Nutrition Department Hillcrest | San Diego CA | 619-380-9840 |
| Oyster and Pearl Bar Restaurant | La Mesa CA | 619-303-8118 |
| Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill - Bar | La Jolla CA | 858-228-5655 |
| Cliffhanger Cafe Menu | San Diego CA | 858-452-9858 |
| Bridges at Rancho Santa Fe | Rancho Santa Fe CA | 858-759-6063 |
| Giaola | Carlsbad CA | 858-266-9303 |
| Grossmont-Cuyamaca Community College District | El Cajon CA | 619-644-7585 |
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| Sandpiper Wood Fired Grill & Oysters | La Jolla CA | 858-228-5655 |
| Azuki Sushi Lounge | San Diego CA | 619-238-4760 |
| Books and Records | San Diego CA | 619-310-5298 |
| Glenbrook Health Center | Carlsbad CA | 760-704-1000 |
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| Addison Del Mar | Del Mar CA | 858-350-7600 |
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| The Santaluz Club Inc - Main Dining | San Diego CA | 858-759-3150 |
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| Copper Kings | San Marcos CA | 323-810-1662 |
| Pamplemousse Grill | Solana Beach CA | 858-792-9090 |
| Catania La Jolla | La Jolla CA | 858-551-5105 |
| InterContinental Vistal Kitchen | San Diego CA | 619-501-9400 |
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| Isola La Jolla | La Jolla CA | 858-412-5566 |
| La Costa Resort & Spa Main Kitchen | Carlsbad CA | 760-930-7063 |
| Neighborhood Burger | San Diego CA | 619-446-0002 |
| Born & Raised (Events) | San Diego CA | 619-550-5412 |
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| Bread & Cie Café | San Diego CA | 619-683-9322 |
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| insideOUT | San Diego CA | 619-888-8623 |
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| Merenda | Oceanside CA | 703-459-4145 |
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| Rosemary Trattoria | Coronado CA | 619-669-8435 |
| The Haven (Pizzeria) | San Diego CA | 619-964-3778 |
| San Diego Yacht Club | San Diego CA | 619-758-6334 |
| Trattoria I Trulli | Encinitas CA | 760-277-9826 |
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| Mesa College | San Diego CA | 619-388-2240 |
| The Smoking Goat | San Diego CA | 858-232-4220 |
| Trust Restaurant | San Diego CA | 609-780-7572 |
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| Bleu Boheme | San Diego CA | 619-255-4167 |
| Comedor Nishi | La Jolla CA | 619-549-9919 |
| Chateau La Jolla | San Diego CA | 858-459-4451 |
| Juniper & Ivy | San Diego CA | 858-481-3666 |
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| Sepulveda Meats & Provisions | San Diego CA | 619-501-1878 |
| Sycuan Casino | El Cajon CA | 619-445-6002 |
| Peace Pies | San Diego CA | 619-618-6960 |
| Reata Glen | Ladera Ranch CA | 949-545-2250 |
| Sheraton Carlsbad (20/20) | Carlsbad CA | 760-827-2400 |
| Hotel La Jolla - Sea & Sky | La Jolla CA | 858-459-0261 |
| The Joint | San Diego CA | 619-222-8272 |
| Vinya: Vino & Vinyasa | San Diego CA | 858-703-8101 |
| Alila Marea Beach Resort | Encinitas CA | 805-539-9719 |
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| Crudo Cevicheria & Oyster Bar | San Diego CA | 619-313-9127 |
| Great Maple Hillcrest | San Diego CA | 619-255-2282 |
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| Artifact at Mingei | San Diego CA | 619-846-2164 |
| Isola Pizza Bar | San Diego CA | 619-564-2938 |
| Ki's Kitchen Commissary | VISTA CA | 760-777-0700 |
| Finca North Park | San Diego CA | 619-581-3003 |
| Bernardo Heights Country Club | San Diego CA | 858-487-4022 |
| The Kitchen at MCASD | La Jolla CA | 619-894-2051 |
| Cocina de Barrio Point Loma | San Diego CA | 858-349-2313 |
| Kona Kai Resort and Marina | San Diego CA | 619-221-8000 |
Recipe Ideas
Recipes that include Leeks. One
is easiest, three is harder.
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