Ingredients
Leeks
- 5-6 large leeks, sliced into 1-inch rounds
Cooking Fats
- Avocado oil (or another high heat oil), as needed for searing
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
Herbs & Aromatics
- 5-6 large cloves garlic
- 4 sprigs rosemary
- 4 sprigs thyme
Liquids & Seasoning
- 1 cup beef stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: flaky salt for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425˚F (220˚C) to get ready for finishing the leeks.
- Prepare the leeks: Slice the leeks into 1-inch thick rounds. Rinse them thoroughly in cold water to remove any dirt or sand trapped between the layers. Pat them completely dry using paper towels.
- Sear one side of the leeks: Heat avocado oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Before adding the leeks, reduce heat to medium. Place the leeks cut side down and sear them for 3-5 minutes until golden brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sear the other side: Flip the leeks over and season again with salt and pepper. Sear for another 3-5 minutes until this side is also golden brown. Turn off the heat and use tongs and paper towels to soak up excess oil in the pan.
- Add butter, garlic, and herbs: Return the skillet to medium heat. Add the butter, garlic cloves, rosemary, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Heat until the butter is foamy and hot but does not brown. Using a spoon, baste the leeks with the melted butter to infuse flavor.
- Deglaze and braise in oven: Pour in the beef stock, turn off the heat, and place the skillet in the preheated oven. Cook the leeks for 15-20 minutes until they are very tender and infused with the buttery herb flavors.
- Finish and serve: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the leeks with flaky salt if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, tender leeks.
Notes
- Ensure leeks are thoroughly cleaned to avoid any grit in the dish.
- Use an oven-safe skillet to easily transfer from stovetop to oven.
- Butter should be hot and foamy but not browned to avoid bitterness in flavor.
- Beef stock can be substituted with vegetable stock for a lighter taste, but the richness will be less intense.
- Flaky salt adds a nice finishing texture and burst of saltiness when serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French