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A fresh leek that is being cut down the middle lengthwise.
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5 from 17 votes

How to Cut and Clean Leeks

Knowing How to Cut Leeks is a very simple process that first involves removing the tougher green leaves and then cutting the tender, white stalk into slices. But it doesn't stop there! A lot of dirt is hidden between the layers of the stalk which makes cleaning them in a bowl of water an absolute must!
Prep Time5 minutes
Total Time5 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Breakfast, Dinner, lunch, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, French
Servings: 1 serving

Ingredients

  • Leeks

Instructions

Cutting Leeks:

  • Cut off the root end of the leek.
    Leeks
    Trimming the root end of a leek.
  • Locate the intersection of the light green stem and dark green leaves. Make a cut and discard the green leaves.
    The green leaves of a leek being cut off and discarded.
  • For half-moon slices: Slice the leek in half lengthwise and cut into thin slices.
    A cutting board with a fresh leek on it and cutting it into thin slices.
  • For round slices: Starting at one end cut the leek into round slices.
    A cutting board with a fresh leek on it and cutting it into thin slices.

Cleaning Leeks:

  • Fill a large bowl with water and add sliced leeks.
    A bowl full of water showing how to clean leeks.
  • Toss leeks around in the water until all of the dirt detaches from the leeks.
    A hand picking up sliced leeks out of a bowl of water after cleaning them.
  • Drain the water carefully or use a colander.
    A colander full of thinly sliced and cleaned leeks for a potato leek soup recipe.
  • Pat leeks dry before using.

Notes

  • Nutritional information is for 1 leek.
Storage Directions
Store leeks in a cool, dry place such as the crisper drawer in your refrigerator. If they came in bag, remove the bag before you store leeks to prevent excess moisture from building up. Leeks can potentially last for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Calories: 54kcal | Carbohydrates: 13g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 18mg | Potassium: 160mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 1484IU | Vitamin C: 11mg | Calcium: 53mg | Iron: 2mg