Seasons/Availability
Baby leeks are available year-round.
Peak season is mid Spring to early Summer.
Nutritional Value
Baby leeks are low in calories and offer a good source of fiber, vitamin C and potassium as well as small amounts of other vitamins and minerals. They also contain fructans which can help improve digestive health.
Applications
Baby leeks have many applications in the kitchen. The fine delicate texture makes them an ideal addition to salads or sandwiches, while their mellow flavor makes them perfect for sautéing along with meats, seafoods, grains or vegetables. Baby leeks can be steamed, braised, boiled or stir-fried. Braising is a great way to make baby leeks tender and flavorful without losing their crunchy texture. They are also great to use in soups, stews and casseroles. Baby leeks can be pickled for a unique flavor addition to many dishes. The tasteful green tops of baby leeks can also be used as a garnish or added to compound butter for extra flavor.
Storage
Baby leeks should be stored in the refrigerator wrapped in plastic or in a perforated bag with their root ends sealed off with damp paper towel. To maintain freshness they should be consumed within 3-4 days of purchase. Properly stored, baby leeks will last about 1 week before starting to spoil. If the stems starts to dry out they can be soaked overnight in water helping extend its shelf life.
Preparation
When selecting baby leeks, look for firm stems with bright green tops. Avoid any that appear slimy or have dark spots. Before cooking baby leeks, they should be washed thoroughly to remove any dirt and sand especially in the area where the roots meet the stem. Trim off the root ends and discard any tough outer pieces of leaves before cutting them into desired shapes. If using whole baby leeks, make sure to cut cleanly through both ends of the stem. Baby leeks are typically served cooked but can also be eaten raw if desired.
Baby leeks will add a mild oniony flavor to any dish, making them an ideal ingredient for soup, salads and side dishes.
