An ingredient to enjoy LEEKS

Designer, cook and author Sophie Conran shares her favourite seasonal flavour

The modest leek is an unlikely candidate for stardom and yet has won numerous accolades. It is the national emblem of wales, was picked out in diamonds on the queen’s coronation gown, and has been on menus for millennia, enjoyed by the Egyptians and Anglo-Saxons, who gave it its name. When you consider how versatile it is, it’s not surprising that its popularity endures to this day. Leek vinaigrette – a beautiful spring dish of tiny, young leeks, boiled and dressed – can be added to stocks, soups, stews, risottos and pies – I wouldn’t be without them. Find out more at sophieconran.com.