Leeks (Allium porrum)

This vegetable is grown and used primarily in northern China. It is treated as an onion and stir-fried with meats. The leeks found in China are large, cylindrical and resemble a giant spring onion with a white husk, like garlic. Leeks found in the West are a good substitute. Leeks have a mild, slightly sweet onion flavour. To use, cut off and discard the green tops and roots and halve the leek lengthways. Wash them well. Store them in a plastic bag in a vegetable crisper of your refrigerator.