"Brazilian leeks", also known as Brazilian chives or garlic chives, is a versatile vegetable with a distinctive garlicky flavor and aroma. This unique ingredient is widely used in Brazilian cuisine for its ability to add a savory depth to dishes. Whether you're looking for simple side dishes or flavorful additions to your main courses, Brazilian leeks offer a range of culinary possibilities. In this article, we'll explore some of the most delicious recipes that highlight the unique taste of Brazilian leeks, providing you with step-by-step instructions and tips to ensure successful cooking.
Let's cook with our recipes!
BRAZILIAN LEEKS
Leeks as a side dish. Who knew? These leeks benefit from the slow cooking to bring out their natural sugars. Don't cook them too fast or over heat them so they'll burn. Slow, gentle heat will produce soft and sweet leeks that you can twirl on your fork like spaghetti! The recipe calls for a sweet balsamic reduction. I've included the directions for that. Recipe courtesy of Eva Longoria.
Provided by LifeIsGood
Categories Vegetable
Time 50m
Yield 4-6 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 6
Steps:
- Sweet Balsamic Reduction:.
- Put the balsamic vinegar and sugar into a small saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Bring to a simmer and simmer until the vinegar is reduced to 3 or 4 tablespoons. It should be the consistency of warmed honey and will have a caramelized sweet-tart flavor. This takes approximately 10 minutes. (You can refrigerate and store this reduction for up to 2 weeks.).
- Leeks:.
- Trim the leeks and cut them in half lengthwise. Under running water, use your fingers to gently pull open the layers of the leeks to rinse away the sand. Shake the excess water off. Thinly slice the leeks lengthwise into long, thin strips.
- Heat the oil and butter in a large skiller over low heat. When the butter has melted, add the leeks. If you can't add all the leeks at one time, add them in batches and use tongs to turn them gently as they cook, bringing the leeks on the bottom of the pan to the top as they reduce in volume -- this will make more room.
- Once all of the leeks have been added, cook gently, stirring occasionally until they are soft enough to be twirled on a fork like spaghetti! This should take approximately 18 to 10 minutes. Add a little more butter or oil if needed.
- Serve, drizzling a little of the reduced balsamic vinegar over each portion.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 234.7, Fat 15.2, SaturatedFat 2.8, Cholesterol 3.8, Sodium 25.6, Carbohydrate 23.3, Fiber 1.6, Sugar 13.5, Protein 1.5
BRAZILIAN LEEKS
Steps:
- Trim the leeks and cut them in half lengthwise. Run them under cold running water, using your fingers to gently pull open the layers to rinse away the sand. Shake the excess water from the leeks and use a sharp knife to thinly slice the leeks lengthwise into long, thin strips.
- In a large skillet, heat the oil and butter over low heat. When the butter is melted, add the leeks. If you cannot add all the leeks at once, add them in batches and use tongs to gently turn them as they cook, bringing the leeks on the bottom of the pan to the top as they reduce in volume to make more room.
- Once all of the leeks have been added to the pan, cook gently, stirring occasionally, until they are soft enough to be twirled on a fork like spaghetti, 18 to 20 minutes. Add a little more butter or oil if necessary.
- Serve, drizzling a little reduced balsamic vinegar over each portion, if desired.
Tips:
- Choose the right leeks: Select young, slender leeks with bright green leaves and no signs of wilting or bruising.
- Clean the leeks thoroughly: Leeks can trap dirt and grit between their layers, so rinse them well under running water before using.
- Trim the leeks properly: Cut off the root end and the tough, dark green tops. Slice the leeks lengthwise and rinse them again to remove any remaining dirt.
- Cook the leeks until tender: Leeks should be cooked until they are soft and slightly caramelized. This can be done by sautéing, roasting, or braising them.
- Season the leeks to taste: Leeks have a mild flavor, so they can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices. Some popular options include salt, pepper, garlic, onion, thyme, and rosemary.
- Use leeks in a variety of dishes: Leeks can be used in soups, stews, salads, pasta dishes, and more. They are also a great addition to omelets, frittatas, and quiches.
Conclusion:
Leeks are a versatile and delicious vegetable that can be used in a variety of dishes. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, and they have a mild flavor that pairs well with many other ingredients. With their unique flavor and texture, leeks can add a special touch to any meal. So next time you're looking for a new vegetable to try, give leeks a try. You won't be disappointed!
Are you curently on diet or you just want to control your food's nutritions, ingredients? We will help you find recipes by cooking method, nutrition, ingredients...
Check it out »
#60-minutes-or-less #time-to-make #course #main-ingredient #cuisine #preparation #low-protein #side-dishes #vegetables #brazilian #vegan #vegetarian #south-american #dietary #low-sodium #low-cholesterol #healthy-2 #low-in-something
You'll also love