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Easy French-Style Braised Leeks with White Wine Sauce

Close-up of three tender braised leeks, glistening with a light sauce, served on a simple white dish.
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Make tender, elegant braised leeks using simple ingredients and a classic white wine butter sauce. This recipe is easy enough for weeknights but refined enough for a dinner party.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large leeks, white and light green parts only
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the leeks: Trim the root ends and the dark green tops. Slice the white and light green parts lengthwise, then rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove all grit. Cut the leeks into 2-inch long pieces.
  2. Heat the butter and olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  3. Add the cut leeks to the skillet in a single layer if possible. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the leeks begin to soften and turn translucent.
  4. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer rapidly for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  5. Add the broth, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the leeks are very tender when pierced with a fork.
  7. Remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to medium-low. Let the remaining liquid reduce until it forms a thin, glossy sauce that coats the leeks. This takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately as an elegant side dish.

Notes

  • For a creamy leeks side dish, stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  • If you prefer a vegan braised leeks preparation, substitute the butter with vegan butter and use vegetable broth.
  • To make this a simple savory leeks recipe without wine, replace the white wine with an equal amount of extra broth and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastethisplate.com/easy-braised-leeks-french-style-recipe/