Toasted bread w/leeks & mustard sauce
Char Level: If you like your toasted leeks more charred, you can leave them on the grill or under the broiler a bit longer, but be careful not to burn them completely. Vegan Option: Use vegan mayo for the sauce if you prefer a vegan dish. Pairing: This dish goes well with grilled or roasted meats, as a side to fish, or even as a unique accompaniment to a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients
For the Toasted Leeks
• 4-6 large leeks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mustard Sauce
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (you can use whole grain or a mix for texture)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter version
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
• 1 small clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs like parsley or chives, chopped
preparing the leeks
• Clean the Leeks:
• Trim the root end and the tough green parts, leaving about 6-8 inches of the white and light green parts.
• Cut the leeks in half lengthwise. Rinse under cold water to remove any dirt between the layers.
• Pat the leeks dry with paper towels.
• Brush them with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Preheat your grill, grill pan, or oven broiler to medium-high.
• If using a grill or grill pan, place the leeks cut side down first. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the toasted leeks are nicely charred and tender. If using an oven, place them on a baking sheet under the broiler, turning once, until they are charred and tender, about 5-7 minutes per side.
Mixing the Mustard Sauce
A signature mustard sauce could become synonymous with a chef’s or brand’s identity, much like how certain chefs are known for specific sauces or dishes. Of equal importance is a focus on high-quality, locally-sourced mustard seeds and other ingredients can promote sustainability by supporting local agriculture and reducing carbon footprints associated with food transport.
• In a small bowl, combine the mustard, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), honey, vinegar, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
• Stir until smooth and well combined.
• Taste the sauce and adjust with more honey if you want it sweeter, or more vinegar if you prefer it tangier.
• Stir in the chopped fresh herbs for added flavor.
Mustard seeds are rich in minerals like selenium, magnesium, and calcium, and offer vitamins like A, B-complex, and C. A well-crafted mustard sauce for toasted leeks could incorporate these health benefits without overwhelming the taste. Additionally, mustard is known for its digestive properties. It stimulates saliva and gastric juices, which can aid in digestion.
serving
Plating
• Arrange the toasted leeks on a serving platter.
• Drizzle or spoon the mustard sauce over the leeks. Alternatively, you can serve the sauce on the side for dipping.
