The change in weather is calling for some more winter foods, root vegetables and oven-roasted meats. Here’s a side that I think is perfect for fall (and those Panko breadcrumbs you may have used once or twice to make schnitzel, but never again).
INGREDIENTS
Braised Leeks
2leeks, trimmed, cleaned and halved lengthwise
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 tablespoon of butter
Juice of 1/2 a lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Crispy Panko Topping
1/4cup panko
1tablespoon parsley, finely chopped, leaves only
2tablespoons grated Parmesan
1pinch salt and pepper to taste
PREPARATION
Melt the butter and olive oil over a medium-high flame in a large sauté pan. Once the oil and butter are hot, place the leeks cut side down into the pan. Let the leeks brown in the pan for 4-5 minutes. Carefully flip the leeks over and turn the heat on low. Cover and let the leeks braise for about 25-30 minutes or until the leeks are soft all the way through. Take the leeks off the heat and squirt the lemon juice over the braised leeks and add salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with the panko topping.
2. For the panko topping: Combine panko with parsley, Parmesan, and salt and pepper in a small dish. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast this mixture until golden brown. Serve over the leeks. Make sure that you taste the panko mixture for correct seasonings to ensure that the dish is seasoned all the way through.