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Fondant Leeks Recipe

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4.2 from 62 reviews

This elegant Fondant Leeks recipe features tender leek rounds seared to a golden brown and gently braised in a rich butter, garlic, and herb-infused beef stock. Finished off in the oven, these leeks develop deep, savory flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, perfect as an impressive side dish.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

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

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425˚F (220˚C) to get ready for finishing the leeks.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: French