you’re able to in spades get leeks in the US . Leeks were actually brought to North America by early settler from Europe , so they have been grown here for centuries . Nowadays , leeks are widely available in grocery fund and can also be grown in home plate garden .
Leeks are a fantastic stand-in for onions and volunteer their own unique flavour to dish . They have long , shoulder strap - corresponding folio and some varieties develop a roundish bulb at the theme . The edible part of the leek is the blanched and light green portion , while the dark dark-green leaves are usually discarded or used for stock .
When shop at for leek , await for one that have unwavering , straight straw with fresh - look leaves . quash leeks that are wilted , have yellow parting , or appear slimy . It ’s best to expend leeks within a few days of purchase for optimal freshness and flavor .
If you want to spring up your own scallion , they can be started from seeds indoors or straight off sown into the garden . Leeks favor cool weather condition and are typically planted in early leaping or later summertime for a fall harvest . They require well - drained stain and full Dominicus or partial shade .
To grow Allium porrum from seeds , depart them indoors about 8 - 10 weeks before the last hoarfrost day of the month . Sow the seeds in tray or pots fill with seed start up mix and keep them moist until germination . Once the seedling have a few on-key parting , they can be transplant into the garden .
When planting scallion in the garden , prepare the filth by add compost or well - rotted manure to improve fertility . get the picture a trench about 6 inch deep and place the leek seedling in the deep , space them about 6 inch apart . As the leeks arise , gradually fill up in the trench with soil to pale the lower portion of the stalking .
Leeks require consistent wet , so water them on a regular basis , specially during dry point . mulch around the plant can facilitate maintain moisture and suppress weeds . Leeks are relatively low criminal maintenance , but it ’s of import to keep an center out for pests such as aphids or onion plant maggot , and take appropriate standard to control them if necessary .
harvest home leeks can be done when they reach the desire size of it , usually around 1 - 2 inches in diam . softly loosen the dirt around the leeks and cautiously lift them out of the ground . Trim off the solution and dark green leaves , leaving the blanched and light green portion entire .
Leeks can be stash away for several weeks in the icebox . Wrap them loosely in plastic wrap or place them in a perforated moldable bag to maintain wet . or else , you could blench and freeze out leeks for longsighted store .
Allium porrum are readily available in the US and can be buy at grocery store storage or produce in home gardens . They are a versatile and flavourous vegetable that can be used as a substitute for onions or enjoyed in their own right field in various dish . Whether you choose to bribe or grow Allium porrum , they are a wonderful increase to your culinary repertoire .
Caroline Bates
