How to Cut Leeks with Step-by-Step Instructions

Leeks are alliums and are related to onions, garlic, chives, and shallots. They taste similar to onions but are sweeter in flavor. Leeks can be used to make savory soups or they can be grilled or roasted to create a delicious and healthy side dish.

Because of its large leaves, it is easy for dirt and debris to get trapped between the layers. Here are simple ways to properly clean and cut leeks.

How to clean and cut leeks

Before you can incorporate leeks into your next culinary treat, make sure you take the proper steps to effectively clean and cut your leeks.

1. Rinse your leeks

Rinse off your leeks with water and pat to dry.

2. Remove the roots

Cut off the root end of the leek. Look for the white end with roots strings growing from the bottom.

3. Remove the leaves

Cut off the dark green leaves of the leek. The dark green leaves are much tougher in texture in comparison to the white and light green part of the leek that is typically consumed. However, you can wash and save the dark green leaves of a leek in the freezer and use them to add depth of flavor in homemade stock broths.

4. Cut the stalks

Now, you’re left with the white and light green stalk of the leeks. There are a few ways on how to cut your leeks:

• Rings: Keep the stalks whole and simply cut them into thin slices. You’ll be left with small rings that can be used in soups and other tasty dishes.
• Half-moon: To cut your leeks into half-moon shapes, slice your leeks in half lengthwise. Place the cut side down on the cutting board and slice into thin half-moon shapes.
• Halved: Cut the stalk in half lengthwise. Using halved leeks is great for roasting or grilling. Brush on olive oil, season. and roast your leeks on both sides to get a nice char and deeper roasted flavor.
• Julienne (thin strips): To cut using the julienne technique simply means to cut an item into thin strips. To julienne your leeks, cut the stalks in half lengthwise and start slicing into thin strips. You’ll be left with thin ribbons of leeks that can be used in a variety of recipes.  

6. Rinse your chopped leeks

Once you’ve cut your leeks, rinse and submerge your sliced leeks in a bowl of cool water. Use your fingers to gently stir and move the leeks so any dirt and debris can fall to the bottom of the bowl.

7. Transfer to a colander

Using your hands or slotted spoon, move your washed leeks to a colander. Make sure not to pour the entire bowl into the colander or the dirt may be dumped back onto your leeks. Rinse your leeks in the colander once more if needed.

8. Dry before cooking

Before you cook with your leeks, use a paper towel and pat to dry to remove any excess moisture.

Ways to eat leeks

Leeks have bold flavor and can be used in a variety of ways. Here are just a few tasty ways to eat fresh leeks.

Raw

Leeks, like onions, can be consumed raw. Just be ready for a strong, pungent flavor. To make it easier to eat, try thinly slicing your leeks and using them as a bright garnish on soups, salads, and protein dishes. You can also try incorporating thin slices into dips, marinades, or salad dressings.

Sautéed

If you’re using leeks in your culinary dishes, you can try sautéing them like you would when integrating cooked onions in a dish. When you sauté leeks for a good period of time, they will brown and caramelize like onions and become sweeter in flavor.

Roasted or grilled

You can roast or grill your leeks whole, halved, or sliced according to your preference. If you’re looking for leeks to be the star of your dish, try slicing your leeks in half, brushing them with olive oil and salt and pepper, or for something with more pizzazz, brush with butter, lemon, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, cayenne, and freshly grated parmesan cheese.

Start cooking with leeks

Whether you decide to eat them raw, sautéed, roasted, or grilled, there is no wrong way to eat leeks. There are many tantalizing recipes that utilize leeks as the star of a dish or as a strong accompanying side ingredient.

Soup

One popular way to incorporate leeks into a dish is by adding them into a soup. On chilly nights when you need some extra warmth and comfort, make a batch of potato and leek soup. This soothing, creamy, and savory soup is perfect to eat when curled up on the couch with a good book.

Protein

Another common way to eat leeks is by adding them to a protein dish as a staple side ingredient. Try pan roasting chicken and leeks with garlic, fresh herbs, and lemon for a bright and savory meal, or test out a seafood dish using fresh codfish, leeks, and vibrant cherry tomatoes.

Stuffed

If you’re looking to tackle a new dinner recipe, try stuffed leeks. Experiment with different fillings like blue cheese, raisins, and almonds, or try something heartier like stuffing fresh leeks with minced chicken, carrots, and celery. When cooked in the oven, your leeks will soften and start to develop a sweeter flavor profile that complements the taste of your stuffing.

Bruschetta

For something unique on ‘build your own bruschetta’ nights, give guests a variety of toppings. Include your typical bruschetta ingredients like tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, chopped artichoke, and smoked salmon, but also introduce your guests to unique toppings like roasted leeks, fava beans, sweet melons, and grilled pumpkin.

Shop for leeks

If leeks have piqued your interest, try adding them to your next culinary adventure. To get started, pick up fresh leeks at your local grocery store or if you’re in a pinch for time, add leeks to your online grocery list via Instacart. From there, you can either pick up your grocery items curbside or you can have your groceries conveniently delivered right to your front door.