Tender braised leeks served in a silky, tangy beurre blanc sauce—an elegant side dish that pairs beautifully with fish, chicken, or roasted vegetables.
Author:Beth
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20–25 minutes
Total Time:30–35 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Side Dish
Method:Braised + Stove
Cuisine:French-inspired
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
4 large leeks (white and light green parts only), halved lengthwise and rinsed
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 cup dry white wine or vermouth
1/2 cup low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 shallot, finely minced
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness)
3/4 cup (150 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt and white pepper, to taste
Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add the leek halves, cut-side down, and cook until lightly golden, about 3 minutes.
Pour in wine and broth, add shallot, cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer until leeks are tender, about 12–15 minutes.
(Optional) Stir in heavy cream and simmer 2 more minutes until heated through.
Remove leeks and keep warm. Increase heat to medium-low.
Add cubed cold butter a few pieces at a time, whisking constantly until sauce is smooth and emulsified. Do not let it boil.
Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and white pepper to taste.
Arrange braised leeks on a platter, spoon the beurre blanc over them, and garnish with chopped chives or parsley.
Serve immediately alongside your main course.
Notes
For extra depth, you can add a touch of Dijon mustard when emulsifying the butter.
Use a low heat when making the sauce to prevent it from breaking.
Leeks may need more time if thick—test tenderness with a knife before removing the lid.
Leftover sauce can be refrigerated and gently reheated—whisk in extra butter or cream if needed.