What Goes Well With Leeks (25 Best Things to Eat)

Leeks are a delicious vegetable that can be enjoyed in many different ways. I remember when I was young, my mom would cook leeks for me and my sister. We loved them! They were always so delicious. Now that I am older, I still enjoy eating leeks. I especially love to add them to soups and stews.

But I have always wondered what goes well with leeks. I mean, there are so many different options out there. How do you know which one to choose?

Well, luckily for you, I have done the research and compiled a list of what goes well with leeks. I also tried and tested these options to ensure they turn out great. Check it out below!

What Goes Well With Leeks

Ham
Chicken
Bacon
Sausages
Fish
Eggs
Beef
Cheese
Carrots
Potatoes

Ham

Ham offers a variety of flavors and textures that can enhance the taste of any dish. When paired with leeks, the ham provides a savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the leek. It can also be used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, casseroles, and quiches.

However, it is important to choose the right type of ham for the dish. For instance, a smoked ham will provide a smoky flavor that can be overwhelming in some dishes. Conversely, a honey-glazed ham will add sweetness to a dish.

When cooking with ham, it is important to remember that it is already cooked and only needs to be heated through. Overcooking ham can make it tough and dry. To avoid this, cook ham on low heat or use precooked ham.

Chicken

When it comes to poultry, chicken is king. This versatile bird can be roasted, grilled, baked, or sauteed, and its mild flavor makes it a perfect canvas for a variety of sauces and seasonings. It is also relatively lean, making it a good choice for those watching their waistlines.

However, chicken can sometimes be difficult to cook, resulting in dry, rubbery meat. When working with this meat, be sure to use a cooking thermometer to ensure that the meat is cooked through.

For an extra-moist bird, try brining the chicken before cooking. To do this, simply submerge the chicken in a mixture of salt water for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

When paired with leeks, chicken makes a delicious and comforting meal. You may try pairing chicken and leeks in a classic French dish such as coq au vin or using them in a hearty soup or stew.

Bacon

Bacon is a food that needs no introduction. It is loved by people all over the world for its delicious taste and crisp texture. When it comes to pairing bacon with other foods, leeks are a perfect choice.

Leeks have a milder flavor than onions, making them a good complement to the rich taste of bacon. They also have a slightly sweet flavor that can balance out the saltiness of the bacon. When used together, leeks and bacon can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to pasta and salads.

Important things to note when pairing bacon with leeks:

Cook bacon on medium-low heat so that it doesn’t burn.
Drain any excess grease before adding other ingredients.
Cut the leeks into thin slices so that they cook evenly with the bacon.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors. If you like spicy food, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes to your dish. If you’re looking for something more savory, try adding some freshly ground black pepper.

Sausages

Sausages are meat products that are manufactured by grinding beef, chicken, or pork. They can be fresh or cured, and they can be smoked, grilled, or baked.

Sausages are a popular food all over the world, and they are often served with leeks. When leeks and sausages are paired together, the result is a delicious and hearty meal.

Leeks add a touch of sweetness to the rich flavor of the sausage, and the two ingredients complement each other perfectly. Plus, there are many different ways to enjoy this combination. They can be used in soups, stews, casseroles, pasta dishes, and more.

Fish

Fish is a delicious, healthy option for any meal. It’s a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids and can be cooked in a variety of ways. When it comes to pairing fish with other ingredients, leeks are a great option.

They have a mild onion flavor that complements the taste of fish without overwhelming it. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients like fiber and vitamins A and C.

Here are a few recipes to get you started:

Fish tacos with leek slaw: This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The leeks add crunch and freshness to the tacos, while the fish provides protein and healthy fats.
Pan-seared salmon with leeks and potatoes: This dish is elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. The leeks add flavor and depth to the dish, while the potatoes make it hearty and filling.
Roasted fish with leeks and carrots: This dish is perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal. The leeks add sweetness and color to the dish, while the carrots add nutritional value and visual appeal.

Eggs

Eggs are a classic ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. They have a delicate flavor that is both rich and fresh, and their creamy texture makes them a versatile canvas for other flavors.

When paired with leeks, Eggs take on a more savory note, complementing the leeks’ gentle sweetness. Leeks and Eggs can be used in omelets, frittatas, quiches, and soufflés. They can also be sautéed together and served as a simple side dish.

When cooking with eggs, it’s important to be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause them to become tough and rubbery. If you’re looking for a light and fluffy texture, be sure to whip the eggs until they are pale yellow and doubled in volume. For a richer flavor, you can add some grated cheese or chopped herbs to the mix.

Beef

Leeks and beef is a classic flavor combination that is often used in French cuisine. The reason why this duo works so well together is that the leeks add a touch of sweetness and richness to the beef, while the beef provides a savory base for the leeks.

There are many different dishes that you can make with leeks and beef, but some of the most popular ones include cream of leek soup, leek and bacon tart, and braised leeks with beef.

When it comes to choosing the right type of beef for this pairing, you will want to use a cut that is relatively lean and has a good flavor. Some of the best cuts of beef for this pairing include sirloin, flank steak, and ribeye.

Important things to note when pairing beef with leeks:

The leeks should always be cooked before the beef. This will ensure that they are properly softened and have time to release their flavor into the dish.
When cooking with beef, it is also important to remember that less is more. You want to cook the beef until it is just slightly pink in the center, as this will ensure that it stays juicy and flavorful.
When plating your dish, be sure to arrange the leeks and beef in an attractive manner so that your guests can see all of the different colors and textures.

Cheese

There’s nothing quite like a good cheese plate. Cheese is rich and creamy, with a complex flavor that can range from nutty to tangy. And when paired with the right food, it can be absolutely delicious.

One of my favorite things to pair with cheese is leeks. Leeks are a type of onion, but they have a much milder flavor than their cousins. They’re also very versatile – they can be used in soups, salads, or even grilled. When paired with cheese, they help to balance out the richness and add a bit of sweetness.

There are lots of different ways to pair leeks and cheese. One of my favorites is to use them in a grilled cheese sandwich. The leeks add a lovely sweetness that pairs well with the sharpness of the cheese. Another great option is to use them in a quiche or frittata as the leeks add flavor and texture, and the cheese helps to bind everything together.

Carrots

Carrots are one of the most popular vegetables and for good reason. Sweet and crunchy, they are a versatile addition to any meal. When served with leeks, they make an especially tantalizing dish. The sweetness of the carrots helps to offset the slight bitterness of the leeks, and the two vegetables complement each other perfectly.

Carrots can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and side dishes. When cooked properly, they retain their crunch and their flavor. However, carrots can also be overcooked and become mushy. To avoid this, it is important to cook them only until they are tender.

Potatoes

Looking for the perfect side dish to accompany your leeks? Look no further than potatoes! Potatoes are a versatile and delicious root vegetable that can be cooked in many different ways.

They have a creamy texture and a mild, earthy flavor that pairs well with leeks. When cooked together, leeks and potatoes make a delicious and nourishing meal.

Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy them:

Roasted leeks and potatoes: Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of both vegetables and creates a crispy, caramelized exterior. Simply toss diced potatoes and leeks with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast in a preheated oven until tender. Serve as is or top with fresh herbs for an extra flavor boost.
Potato and leek soup: This comforting soup is easy to make and can be tailored to your liking. Start by sautéing diced leeks in butter until softened. Add diced potatoes and chicken broth, then simmer until the potatoes are cooked through. Puree the soup until smooth, then season to taste with salt, pepper, and/or additional herbs.
Baked potato with leek topping: Baked potatoes are delicious on their own, but they’re even better when topped with sautéed leeks. Simply bake your potato according to instructions, then top with butter, sour cream, and chopped leeks. Season with salt and pepper to taste and enjoy!

Conclusion

Now that you know what goes well with leeks, it’s time to get cooking! This versatile vegetable can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and side dishes.

When cooked properly, they retain their crunch and their flavor. So go ahead and experiment with different ways of cooking leeks. You may just find your new favorite dish!

What Goes Well With Leeks (25 Best Things to Eat)