How to…Prepare Leeks

Leeks often contain earth and dirt between their layers and need to be washed thoroughly. Trim off the roots, remove any coarse outer leaves, then wash in a colander under running water. You can also wash the cut leeks in lots of water to rinse away any dirt. If you are planning to serve the leeks whole, make a deep, crossways slit through the leafy end of the leeks, then soak them in a bowl of water, shaking them well to dislodge any dirt.