Native to the Mediterranean area, leeks may have originated in Egypt where they were cultivated and worshipped: "... where onions are adored, and leeks are gods..." Leeks have been a cooking staple in Europe for centuries. France and Wales have particularly glorified the leek in both their lore and cooking.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate leeks unwashed and dry with roots attached for up to two weeks. Wrap lightly in plastic to avoid aroma spreading to other foods.

• For longer term storage, leeks can be buried in moist sand and kept in a cool but not freezing location for part of the winter.