November 8, 2025, 5:47 am | Read time: 2 minutes
Leeks, also known regionally as scallions, are a true multitasker in the kitchen–aromatic, versatile, and especially popular in the fall. But as delicious as this stalk vegetable is, it can be tricky to prepare: A lot of sand and dirt often hide between the tightly packed layers. How to properly clean leeks is a topic of regular debate–and not all methods lead to a clean result. myHOMEBOOK explains how to do it right.
Sand in Your Food? Not Here!
If you crunch on sand while preparing leeks, you probably didn’t wash them thoroughly enough. And this is where opinions in the kitchen diverge: Some cut the stalks lengthwise and rinse them under running water, while others prefer to wash the leaves individually or cut the leeks into rings and then clean them in a sieve or bowl. So, which method is best?
Also of interest: How to Plant Leeks with Minimal Effort
3 Simple Grill Sides from the Air Fryer
Grilled Salmon – Recipe and Tips from Ali Güngörmüş
The Recommended Cleaning Method
The Federal Center for Nutrition (BZfE) provides clear recommendations on how to effectively rid leeks of dirt and sand:
- First, cut off the root base.
- Then remove the outer, coarse leaves and wilted ends.
- Next, cut the leek lengthwise, fan it out, and rinse thoroughly under running water.
- For further processing, cut the tender white parts into rings about one centimeter wide.
- The firmer green areas should be cut a bit finer.
This method ensures the vegetable is reliably clean–without any sand between your teeth.
Two Simple Recipes with Leeks
Leeks are not only versatile but also taste great in a variety of combinations. The BZfE presents two recipe ideas that are quick to prepare and highlight the vegetable’s spicy character–both cold and warm.
Apple-Leek Salad
The salad impresses with its fresh note. For this, mix the prepared leeks with diced apples, dress with a yogurt dressing, and then sprinkle with fresh cress and roasted sunflower seeds. Whole grain bread or crispy baguette make suitable sides.
Leek-Potato Soup
Ideal for cold days: For a creamy leek-potato soup, first sauté onions and leeks in a bit of cooking oil. Then add peeled, diced potatoes and pour in vegetable broth. Cook everything for about 15 minutes, then puree and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Toppings like fried onions, chive rolls, ham cubes, or roasted pumpkin seeds are suitable.
With material from dpa