All dishes with leeks have dual nationality in my family. My grandfather, Gheorghe, was from Oltenia, where leeks are considered a culinary symbol, and I now live in Wales, UK, where they play a similar role. What a coincidence.
This stew is very popular, especially during Lent (skipping the wine) and I love it for its sweet-tangy notes and how quickly it comes together. It is usually served with bread, but I've heard that burghul wheat and rice are also common south of the Danube.
Serves 4
INGREDIENTS
sunflower oil, for frying
2 large leeks, washed and cut into round slices green tops included
1 teaspoon coriander seeds
50 ml (1 3/4 fl oz/3 table spoons) white wine
200 ml (7 fl oz/scant 1 cup) vegetable stock
2 x 400 g (14 oz) tins of chopped tomatoes
250 g (9 oz) mixed olives, plain or marinated
zest and juice of 2 lemons
salt and freshly ground black pepper
DIRECTIONS
Cover the base of a large frying pan (skillet) with a thin layer of oil and heat well. Add the sliced leeks with a pinch of salt and the coriander seeds, and cook over a medium heat until well| caramelised. Pour in the wine and allow it to evaporate, then add the stock and the chopped tomatoes, and cook for 15 minutes on a low-medium heat. You can cover the pan with a lid, in which case you need to reduce the heat even more to a gentle bubble.
Add the olives, lemon zest and juice, and cook for 5 minutes more. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Serve with bread, burghul wheat or rice.
Extracted from Danube, by Irina Georgescu (Quadrille $43). Photography by Issy Croker.
When you shop using our links, we earn a small commission. It’s a great way to support public media at no extra cost to you!
Each week, The Splendid Table brings you stories that expand your world view, inspire you to try something new, and show how food connects us all. We rely on your generous support. For as little as $5 a month, you can have a lasting impact on The Splendid Table. And, when you donate, you’ll join a community of like-minded individuals who love good food, good conversation, and kitchen companionship. Show your love for The Splendid Table with a gift today.
Thank you for your support.
Donate today for as little as $5.00 a month. Your gift only takes a few minutes and has a lasting impact on The Splendid Table and you'll be welcomed into The Splendid Table Co-op.