Leeks, belonging to the Allium ampeloprasum species, are vegetables closely related to onions, garlic, shallots, and chives. Known for their mild, slightly sweet flavor, leeks are often overlooked, but they provide a delightful alternative to the strong tastes of their onion-family cousins. Leeks have thick, white stalks and long, flat green leaves that grow in layers, resembling an oversized green onion.
In the culinary world, leeks are famously used in a variety of dishes, from soups to quiches, and are prominently featured in traditional French cuisine. Leeks can provide a subtle flavor when cooked, making them an excellent base ingredient for sautéing and adding a touch of depth to many recipes. To prepare leeks for cooking, it is essential to remove any dirt trapped between the layers and to trim away the tough green tops.