Health Hotline Magazine | April 2024

Leek Gratin

Never underestimate the power of the humble leek, especially when baked until sweet and tender and then topped with a savory, buttery crumble topping. Served alongside chicken, fish, steak, tofu or tempeh, the sweet and savory dance of leeks creates a symphony on your plate that’s nothing short of magic.

Serves: 4-6 | Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 40 minutes | Total time: 55 minutes

Ingredients • 2 pounds organic leeks • 2 tablespoons organic butter (or sub Natural Grocers ® Brand Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil for dairy-free and vegan versions) • ¼ teaspoon Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Real Salt • 2 organic garlic cloves, minced • 1 teaspoon Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Organic Thyme Leaf • ¾ cup organic heavy cream (or sub Natural Grocers Brand Organic Original Coconut Milk for dairy-free and vegan versions) For the topping: • ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons cassava, tapioca, or arrowroot flour • ½ teaspoon each Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Real Salt and Organic Black Pepper • 1 teaspoon Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Organic Poultry Seasoning Blend • 6 tablespoons organic butter (or sub Natural Grocers Brand Organic Plant Based Buttery Sticks for dairy-free or vegan versions) • 3⁄4 cup Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Organic Rolled Oats • ¼ cup + 2 tablespoons Natural Grocers Brand Bulk Organic Pecan Pieces • ½ cup grated or crumbled organic cheese (omit for dairy-free or vegan versions)

Instructions 1. Preheat oven to 375° F.

2. Clean leeks. Trim the root end of each leek and peel off a couple outer layers. Slice halfway through along the length of each leek. Rinse under running water and use your hands to separate the layers and rinse away any dirt. Slice the white and light green parts into ½-inch rounds, peeling off dark green parts as you go to reveal more light green layers. 3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add leeks and sauté for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until leeks are soft and starting to brown a little. 4. Make the topping while the leeks are cooking. Mix the flour, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning in a large bowl. Cut the butter into the flour with a fork or your fingers, mashing the butter and flour together until crumbly, then add the oats, pecans, and cheese. Use a fork to mix all ingredients together. 5. Once the leeks are soft, add salt and garlic and cook one minute, stirring frequently. Add thyme and heavy cream and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. 6. If your skillet is oven-proof, use it, or add the leek mixture to a 9 x 9-inch baking dish/gratin dish and spread the topping evenly over the leeks. 7. Bake for 35 minutes, or until bubbly and the topping is lightly browned. Serve hot.

Natural Grocers ® | 33