Puerto Rican-style Leek Stew

Ingredients

In the original Romanian dish, Mâncare de praz, the leeks are typically cooked with potatoes and served as a side dish. In this Puerto Rican adaptation, the leeks take center stage as the main ingredient in a flavorful stew. The spices and seasonings used in the Puerto Rican version are also different, giving the dish a distinct Caribbean flair. We alse have the original recipe for Mâncare de praz, so you can check it out.

• 4 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced (500g) 4 leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced (500g)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml) 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
• 1 onion, diced 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin (5g) 1 teaspoon ground cumin (5g)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (5g) 1 teaspoon paprika (5g)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (2.5g) 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (2.5g)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (1.25g) 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (1.25g)
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups vegetable broth (950ml) 4 cups vegetable broth (950ml)
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 27g, 9g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the sliced leeks and diced red bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
3. 3.
   Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, dried oregano, ground turmeric, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute to toast the spices and release their flavors.
4. 4.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the leeks are tender.
5. 5.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf.
6. 6.
   Serve the Leek Stew hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Leeks — Make sure to thoroughly clean the leeks before slicing them. Leeks often have dirt trapped between their layers, so it's important to rinse them under cold water and remove any grit.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the stew.
• Serve the Leek Stew with a side of white rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Feel free to customize the spices to your taste preferences. Add more paprika for a smokier flavor or adjust the amount of cumin for a stronger spice profile.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious the next day.
• This stew can be easily doubled or halved to accommodate different serving sizes.

Serving advice

Serve the Puerto Rican-style Leek Stew as a main course, accompanied by a side of white rice or crusty bread. It can also be served alongside other traditional Puerto Rican dishes, such as plantains or yuca.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation of the Leek Stew, garnish each serving with a sprig of fresh cilantro or parsley. The vibrant green herbs will add a pop of color to the dish and provide a refreshing aroma.