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Buttery Braised Leeks Recipe

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4 from 85 reviews

Buttery Braised Leeks are a rich and flavorful side dish where leeks are seared until golden and then slowly braised in butter, garlic, fresh herbs, and beef stock. This method results in tender, melt-in-your-mouth leeks with an aromatic herb-infused buttery sauce, perfect for an elegant accompaniment to any meal.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Leeks

  • 5-6 large leeks, sliced into 1-inch rounds

For Searing

  • Avocado oil or another high heat oil (enough for searing, about 2 tablespoons)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Braising Mixture

  • 4 tablespoons salted butter
  • 5-6 large cloves garlic, peeled
  • 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 cup beef stock

For Serving (optional)

  • Flaky salt for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425˚F (220˚C) to prepare for braising the leeks after searing.
  2. Prepare the Leeks: Slice the leeks into 1-inch thick rounds and thoroughly rinse them in cold water, separating layers as needed to remove any dirt or sand. Pat dry completely with paper towels for best browning.
  3. Sear Leeks – First Side: Heat avocado oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to medium just before adding the leeks. Place the leeks cut-side down and sear for 3-5 minutes until they develop a golden brown crust. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Sear Leeks – Second Side: Flip the leeks, season again, and sear the other side for another 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Turn off the heat and use tongs along with a paper towel to soak up excess oil from the pan.
  5. Add Butter, Herbs, and Garlic: Return the skillet to medium heat and add the butter, whole garlic cloves, rosemary, thyme, and an additional pinch of salt and pepper. Warm the butter until it is foamy but not browned, and baste the leeks repeatedly with the melted butter using a spoon for deep flavor infusion.
  6. Add Stock and Braise in Oven: Pour in the beef stock around the leeks (do not pour over to avoid washing off seasoning). Turn off the stovetop heat, then carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Braise the leeks for 15-20 minutes until very tender and infused with flavor.
  7. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the leeks with flaky salt if desired. Serve warm as a decadent side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or hearty mains.

Notes

  • Make sure to thoroughly rinse the leeks, as they can trap sand and dirt between layers.
  • Patting the leeks dry before searing is crucial for a good golden crust.
  • Use an oven-safe skillet to avoid transferring the leeks to another dish before braising in the oven.
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute beef stock with vegetable stock and omit the salted butter or use a plant-based butter.
  • Flaky salt adds a nice finishing touch and a slight crunch but is optional.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: French

Find it online: https://allyumcooks.com/buttery-braised-leeks-recipe/