Leeks

A member of the onion family, the leek has a fairly overpowering flavour when raw, but a mild sweet taste when cooked. More subtly-flavoured than the onion, leeks may be sliced and added to soups (such as Scotland's cock-a-leekie soup), pies, casseroles and flans. They combine particularly well with potatoes and other root vegetables such as carrots or swedes. Leeks are also delicious when served as a side dish, either simmered in butter, lightly browned and then cooked in a tomato sauce, baked in a white cheese sauce or simply eaten cold with a vinaigrette.