Leeks in an orange sauce

I really hope the old adage “a picture tells a thousand words” is not true in this case, as this photo really does no justice to how good these leeks are. But if you know a better way of presenting these babies on a cold dark night in England then suggestions are very welcome.

The recipe is from Sophie Grigson’s Eat Your Greens and can be found here so I won’t rewrite it for you. I do, however, urge you to try it. Even if you, or someone you are feeding does not like leeks then minds will be changed after trying these.

Leeks lend themselves to sliminess I find. This is rarely a good thing when it comes to something you want to put into your mouth. But by cooking them in this orange flavoured béchamel any potential slipperiness is coated in smooth unctuousness. This is always a good thing. The orange adds a sweetness which makes these the perfect partner for any roast meat and the silky sauce provides an excellent contrast to a crunchy roast potato. Make this as a side on Christmas Day and I promise you it will be perfect (even if the photo isn’t).

 

 

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17 thoughts on “Leeks in an orange sauce”

    1. Margaret you won’t be disappointed and I promise you that they are far more appetising than the photo suggests. Let me know what you think. Sophie Grigson’s Eat Your Greens is a really good book.

  1. Sounds lovely although I don’t often use leeks as a veg. When we were kids my mum used to wrap ham round leeks and bake with a cheese sauce. Brings back memories 🙂

    1. Choc don’t be misled by the terrible photo, the colour is actually nicely orange rather than having this green tinge that my kitchen lights have given them. Do try them they are lovely.

  2. I love leeks and can well imagine how delicious these must be. I cook leeks often, but never in an orange bechamel. Divine idea. I am not thrown off by the “radioactive” glow of the photo!
    Hope that your holidays have been lovely, Kath. Wishing you and yours all the best in 2013. Nancy

  3. Oh yum! My favourite side dish is creamed spinach so I can imagine just how good leeks will taste with a gorgeous orange bechamel. This is definitely going to be something I try!

  4. I have never tried orange with leeks – I often braise them in apple juice – looking forward to giving this a try. Thanks.

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