Description
Delicate braised leeks served with a rich, buttery Beurre Blanc sauce a classic French-inspired side dish that’s simple yet incredibly elegant. Perfect alongside fish, chicken, or roasted vegetables.
Ingredients
4 medium leeks, trimmed and cleaned (white and light green parts only)
2 tbsp butter
1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
1/2 cup dry white wine
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Beurre Blanc Sauce:
1/4 cup white wine vinegar
1/4 cup dry white wine
1 shallot, finely minced
1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for stability)
Salt to taste
Fresh lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
1. Slice leeks in half lengthwise and rinse thoroughly to remove any grit.
2. In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Place leeks cut side down in the pan and cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
4. Add broth, wine, salt, and pepper. Cover and reduce heat to low.
5. Simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, until leeks are tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.
6. Meanwhile, make the Beurre Blanc sauce: In a small saucepan, combine vinegar, wine, and shallot.
7. Simmer over medium heat until liquid is reduced to about 2 tablespoons.
8. Reduce heat to low and whisk in butter cubes, a few at a time, until sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
9. Whisk in cream (if using) and season with salt and a few drops of lemon juice.
10. To serve, spoon the Beurre Blanc over the braised leeks and garnish with herbs if desired.
Notes
Use small, slender leeks for the most tender texture.
Add a touch of Dijon mustard to the Beurre Blanc for extra depth.
This elegant side pairs beautifully with seared scallops, salmon, or roasted chicken.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Braised and Sauced
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 leek halves with sauce
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: braised leeks, beurre blanc sauce, French side dish, leeks recipe, elegant vegetable dish
