**Braised Leeks with Parmesan: A Culinary Symphony of Simplicity and Sophistication**
In the realm of culinary delights, braised leeks with Parmesan stand as a testament to the transformative power of simple ingredients. This classic dish, hailing from the heart of French cuisine, embodies the essence of rustic elegance, showcasing the natural sweetness of leeks enhanced by the rich, nutty flavor of Parmesan cheese. As the leeks braise in a flavorful broth, they surrender their fibrous texture, becoming meltingly tender and absorbing the aromatic essence of their surroundings. A sprinkling of Parmesan cheese adds a touch of sophistication, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that dances on the palate. This versatile dish can be served as a standalone vegetarian entrée, a delectable side dish to grilled or roasted meats, or even as a flavorful addition to pasta or risotto. With its captivating aroma and irresistible taste, braised leeks with Parmesan is a culinary masterpiece that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
**Additional Recipe Ideas:**
1. **Braised Leeks with Bacon:** Embark on a journey of smoky indulgence by adding crispy bacon to the braising liquid. The bacon's savory notes intertwine with the sweetness of the leeks, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.
2. **Creamy Braised Leeks:** Transform your braised leeks into a luscious and velvety delight by incorporating heavy cream or crème fraîche. The creamy sauce envelops the leeks, creating a luxurious and comforting dish that is perfect for special occasions.
3. **Braised Leeks with Mushrooms:** Elevate your braised leeks by adding a medley of earthy mushrooms. Sautéed mushrooms, such as shiitake or cremini, add an umami-rich dimension that complements the natural sweetness of the leeks.
4. **Braised Leeks with Goat Cheese:** Experience a delightful twist on the classic by replacing Parmesan cheese with tangy goat cheese. The goat cheese's distinct flavor profile adds a layer of complexity and creates a harmonious balance of flavors.
5. **Braised Leeks with Lemon and Herbs:** Infuse your braised leeks with a refreshing citrusy touch by adding lemon zest and a bouquet of fresh herbs, such as thyme, parsley, or chives. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs complement the natural sweetness of the leeks, creating a vibrant and flavorful dish.
BRAISED LEEKS WITH PARMESAN
Inspired by a Marcella Hazan recipe, this side dish helps Pandolfi feel closer to his Italian heritage. Wash leeks after they're halved by dunking them in a bowl of cold water and vigorously swishing to dislodge dirt and grit trapped between the layers. You may need to repeat the process once or twice, depending on the level of grit. We love the simplicity of this dish. White wine provides a little tangy acid to the leeks, while Parmesan cheese packs an umami wallop, making for a supremely satisfying side.
Provided by Keith Pandolfi
Time 45m
Yield Serves 6 (serving size: 2 leek halves)
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Place 1 tablespoon oil and 1 teaspoon butter in a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high; cook until butter foams. Add half of leeks, cut side down; cook 5 minutes, pressing leeks occasionally, until cut sides are deeply browned. Remove leeks from pan. Repeat procedure with remaining oil, butter, and leeks.
- Return all leeks to pan; add wine. Reduce heat to medium-low; cover and simmer 20 minutes or until leeks are tender when pierced with a fork. Stir in salt and pepper. Transfer mixture to a platter; top with Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 135, Carbohydrate 13 g, Cholesterol 7 mg, Fat 7.4 g, Fiber 2 g, Protein 3 g, SaturatedFat 2.3 g, Sodium 243 mg, Sugar 4 g
GRILLED BRAISED LEEKS
Steps:
- Preheat grill to high. Cut each leek in half lengthwise and rinse thoroughly to remove all dirt and sand. Pat dry. Brush the cut side of each leek half with the bacon drippings and sprinkle with kosher salt. Grill over direct, high heat, cut side down, with lid closed, approximately 6 to 7 minutes or until grill marks appear. Remove the leeks to a sheet of aluminum foil and lay cut side up. Brush the leeks with balsamic vinegar. Reassemble the leek halves together, wrap tightly in foil, and set back on the grill away from direct heat for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Remove the leeks from the foil and serve immediately, as is or with crumbled bacon and goat cheese.
TENDER BRAISED LEEKS
These leeks, poached gently in an aromatic liquor, make a delicious dish on their own, or try them with fish or roast chicken
Provided by Barney Desmazery
Categories Side dish, Supper
Time 40m
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Trim the darkest green part off the leeks and strip away the first two layers. Cut in half lengthways, but keep attached at the root. Wash the leeks under cold running water and set aside. Tip all the other ingredients, except the olives and parsley, into a wide shallow pan with 200ml water, some cracked pepper and a sprinkling of salt.
- Slip the leeks into the pan, cover and place over a low heat. Gently simmer for 20 mins, turning them occasionally until very tender - a knife blade should slip in easily. Leave to cool until just warm, then stir through the parsley and olives, if you like. Serve the leeks as they are with crusty bread or with roast chicken or fish.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 65 calories, Fat 2 grams fat, Carbohydrate 7 grams carbohydrates, Sugar 5 grams sugar, Fiber 3 grams fiber, Protein 3 grams protein, Sodium 0.01 milligram of sodium
SIMPLE BRAISED LEEKS
Steps:
- Remove outer leaves; cut dark-green ends from leeks. Trim roots, keeping leaves attached. Halve lengthwise; rinse to remove grit.
- Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add leeks to pan and arrange cut side down in a single layer. Cook until softened and light golden, 3 to 4 minutes. Turn leeks and cook on the other side until softened, 3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Turn the leeks again so they are cut side down and peel off any papery outer layers. Add stock and wine, stirring to deglaze pan. Cook for 1 minute. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cover with a parchment paper round. Cook until the leeks are tender when pierced with a knife, about 15 minutes.
- Remove parchment, raise heat, and cook until liquid is reduced, about 1 to 2 minutes. Sprinkle with coarse salt and parsley; serve.
LEEKS BRAISED WITH PARMESAN CHEESE
Make and share this Leeks Braised With Parmesan Cheese recipe from Food.com.
Provided by Shahana
Categories Vegetable
Time 40m
Yield 2 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 5
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Combine leeks, oil and water in baking dish.
- Sprinkle with pepper if desired.
- Cover with foil and bake until tender, about 25 minutes; drain.
- Sprinkle with cheese; bake, uncovered, until cheese is melted, about 5 minutes longer.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 88.5, Fat 3.5, SaturatedFat 0.8, Cholesterol 2.9, Sodium 69.6, Carbohydrate 12.7, Fiber 1.6, Sugar 3.5, Protein 2.6
BUTTERY LEEKS WITH PARMESAN AND THYME
Rather than sizzling on the stove, these leeks nestle into a roasting pan with white wine, vegetable broth, a few sprigs of thyme, and a scattering of cubed butter. An hour or so later, you shower them with nutty-salty Parmesan and slide them under the broiler for one last burnishing blast.
Provided by Greg Lofts
Categories Holiday Planning & Ideas Easter Easter Recipes
Time 1h30m
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Trim dark-green tops and root ends from leeks and discard; halve lengthwise. Remove thick, tough outer layers (2 to 4 total, depending on size), discarding or reserving for another use. Thoroughly wash and drain leeks, keeping them intact. Arrange in a snug single layer, cut sides up, in a broiler-safe baking dish or skillet.
- In a small saucepan, boil wine 30 seconds. Add broth and return to a boil; season generously with salt and pepper. Pour mixture over leeks, then sprinkle with butter and thyme. Cover dish with parchment-lined foil.
- Roast 45 minutes. Uncover and continue roasting until leeks are very soft and broth mixture is reduced by half, 20 to 22 minutes.
- Switch oven to broil. Sprinkle leeks with cheese. Broil 6 to 8 inches from heating element until bubbly and browning in places, 3 to 5 minutes. Serve warm, with some of braising liquid.
Tips:
- Choose the right leeks: Look for leeks that are firm and have a deep green color. Avoid leeks that are wilted or have yellow or brown spots.
- Trim the leeks properly: Cut off the root end and the dark green tops of the leeks. Then, slice the leeks lengthwise in half and rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven: This will help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the leeks from burning.
- Cook the leeks over low heat: This will allow them to soften and caramelize slowly.
- Add some flavorings: Garlic, shallots, thyme, and bay leaves are all great additions to braised leeks. You can also add a splash of white wine or chicken broth for extra flavor.
- Serve the leeks immediately: Braised leeks are best served hot, either on their own or as a side dish.
Conclusion:
Braised leeks are a simple but delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a side dish or a main course. They are easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. So next time you're looking for a healthy and flavorful dish, give braised leeks a try!
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