Ingredients
Method
Tap the time in each step to start a build-in timer and cook with a little more ease and flow. Be sure to have your volume up to hear the timer chimes!
Prep the Leeks:
Trim the root ends and tough green tops off the leeks. Slice lengthwise and rinse under cool water, fanning out layers to remove any hidden dirt. Slice into 4 to 5 inch batons.🌿 Mindful Moment: As you rinse, notice the layers opening. Feel the cool water moving through each fold.👧 Kid Prompt: “Can we open the leeks like pages in a book and wash their hidden spaces?”💬 Prompt: “What does it feel like to slow down and clean something carefully?”Sauté Softly:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the leeks cut-side down and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, until lightly golden and fragrant.🌿 Mindful Moment: Watch the leeks gently sizzle. Notice the shift from crisp to tender beginning.👧 Kid Prompt: “Can you hear the leeks whispering in the pan?”💬 Prompt: “What do you notice changing? The sound, the smell, or the colour?”Braise with Brightness:
Add in the lemon zest and juice, vegetable broth, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes, until silky-soft.🌿 Mindful Moment: Let the slow simmer guide your breath. Inhale the citrus, exhale slowly.👧 Kid Prompt: “What does lemon smell like? Sunshine or something sparkly?”💬 Prompt: “How does the smell shift as everything softens together?”Finish & Enrich:
Stir in the fresh tarragon and optional cream if desired. Simmer uncovered for 2 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning, as needed.🌿 Mindful Moment: Pause before tasting. Let anticipation build. Notice how the flavours come into balance.👧 Kid Prompt: “What does this taste like? Cozy, bright, or both?”💬 Prompt: “What does ‘balanced’ taste like to you?”Serve Gently:
Plate with a drizzle of cooking liquid and a flourish of lemon zest, herbs, or any other toppings you can think of. 🌿 Mindful Moment: Notice the softness, the sheen, the quiet beauty of the dish before eating.👧 Kid Prompt: “Does this look like something from a garden or a fancy kitchen?”💬 Prompt: “What do you want this meal to feel like in your body?”
Notes
Storage & Serving
Fridge: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days. Freezer: Not recommended, as the texture of the leeks will become too mushy. Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth and lemon to refresh the leeks.Variations
- Add Protein: Top with some chickpeas, poached eggs, or tempeh.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of turmeric or a touch of Dijon mustard for add flavour.
- Grain Bowl Base: To use as a grain bowl base, just serve over cooked quinoa, millet, or couscous.