Smothered leeks and kohlrabi

Smothered Leeks and Kohlrabi is a delightful vegetarian dish that embodies the essence of comfort food with a touch of elegance. This recipe, originally by Sophie Grigson, utilizes a unique method known as "smothering" to cook the vegetables until they are tender, using minimal water and a little fat, covered in a pan. The result is a dish where kohlrabi's natural sweetness shines through, perfectly complemented by the soft, aromatic leeks.

Ingredients for Smothered Leeks and Kohlrabi

• Leeks (3, trimmed and cut into 2cm/¾in lengths)
• Kohlrabi (2, around 650g/1lb 7oz, trimmed, peeled, and cut into 2cm/¾in cubes)
• Carrots (3 large, around 550g/1¼lb, peeled and cut into 2cm/¾in pieces)
• Garlic cloves (6)
• Bay leaf (1)
• Fresh thyme (2 sprigs)
• Water (enough to cover)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Butter (40g/1½oz)

Preparation Instructions

1. Combine leeks, kohlrabi, carrots, and garlic in a wide, shallow pan in a single layer, tucking the herbs among them.
2. Add water to just cover the bottom of the pan, season with salt and pepper, and dot with butter.
3. Cover and cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. If the mixture becomes too watery, uncover to let some water evaporate, aiming for a small amount of syrupy liquid remaining with the vegetables.

Storage and Reheating

To store, cool the dish and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For reheating, gently warm in a pan over low heat, adding a little water if necessary to prevent sticking.

Nutritional Information

This dish is rich in vitamins and fiber, thanks to the leeks, kohlrabi, and carrots. The butter adds a small amount of fat, making it a balanced and nutritious side dish or main.

FAQ about Smothered Leeks and Kohlrabi

Q: Can I make this dish vegan? A: Yes, substitute the butter with a vegan alternative.

Q: How long can I store the leftovers? A: Properly stored, it can last 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

For those interested in a comforting yet elegant vegetarian dish, Smothered Leeks and Kohlrabi offers a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. Original recipe by Sophie Grigson​​​​​​.