Walking around corfu

[kevin-beverly]

I saw this last night Rick Stein's Mediterranean Escapes on Corfu


LEEKS

Allium porrum

A leek is a biennial vegetable, I hear you say biennials let me explain
 meaning they complete their life cycle over two years: they grow vegetatively in the first year (producing the edible part) and then flower and produce seeds in the second year before dying. Most gardeners harvest leeks at the end of their first year, treating them as annuals, but if left to grow, they will produce attractive, pom-pom-like flowers in their second season.

And yes they do grow on Corfu
Leeks are known to be hardy and can be grown in a wide range of climates, including the cooler conditions of Northern Europe and the warmer climate of Greece. They require a sunny, open position with well-drained soil, which is readily available in Corfu.
the broadleaf wild leek (syn. Allium porrum). The edible part of the plant is a bundle of leaf sheaths that is sometimes colloquially called a "stem" or "stalk".
The genus Allium also contains the onion, garlic, shallot, scallion, chives, and Chinese onion. Three closely related vegetables—elephant garlic, kurrat and Persian leek or tareh—are also cultivars of A. ampeloprasum, although different in their culinary uses

Kingdom   Plantae   
Clade   Tracheophytes   
Clade   Monocots   
Order   Asparagales   
Family   Amaryllidaceae   
Subfamily   Allioideae   
Genus   Allium   
Species   Allium ampeloprasum L.   
Cultivar Group   Leek Group (or Porrum Group)   
Variety   Allium ampeloprasum var. porrum

Historically, many scientific names were used for leeks, but they are now all treated as cultivars of A. ampeloprasum. The name leek developed from the Old English word lēac, from which the modern English name for garlic also derives. Lēac means 'onion' in Old English and has cognates in other Germanic languages: Danish løg 'onion', Icelandic laukur 'onion', Norwegian løk 'onion', Swedish lök 'onion' German Lauch 'leek', Dutch look 'Allium (any plant of this genus)'.

HABITAT
Leeks and their wild relatives inhabit moist, temperate environments, thriving in deciduous woodlands, forest edges, riverbanks, and damp grasslands, with specific species favoring coastal areas or specific soil conditions like those found on calcium-rich, north-facing slopes.
Examples of Specific Wild Leeks:
Allium ampeloprasum (Wild Leek): Found on sandy field edges, coastal cliffs, and paths.
Allium ursinum (Wild Garlic/Ramsons): Grows in moist woodlands across temperate Europe.
Allium triquetrum (Three-cornered Leek): Native to the Mediterranean, it grows on riverbanks, meadows, and verges.
Allium tricoccum (Ramps): Favors moist deciduous forests with calcium-rich soils, often found by spring seeps.
Common Habitats & Preferences:
Woodlands: Many wild leeks, such as ramps (Allium tricoccum), prefer moist, rich soils in deciduous forests, often associated with bluebells and specific tree species.
Coastal & Rocky Areas: The wild leek (Allium ampeloprasum) naturally grows in sandy or rocky places near the sea, including cliff slopes and coastal paths.
Disturbed Ground & Verges: Some species colonize disturbed areas like old fields, hedge banks, drainage ditches, roadsides, and rough pasture.
Moisture & Soil: Consistent moisture is key, with preferences for slightly acidic to calcium-rich soils, depending on the species.
Specific Slopes: Ramps often grow on north or east-facing slopes in forests, which retain moisture and provide ideal conditions.

There is one main species of leek, Allium ampeloprasum, which encompasses various horticultural types and varieties, including the common leek (A. ampeloprasum var. porrum) and wild leeks, as well as other related vegetables like elephant garlic.

HISTORY
Leeks have a long history, cultivated since at least ancient Egyptian times (3000 BCE) and prized by Romans like Emperor Nero, before likely being introduced to Britain by Phoenician traders or the Romans themselves. They became strongly associated with Wales, where they are a national emblem, tied to legends of St. David and a battle against the Saxons, and later became a symbol of Welsh national identity.

Egypt: The earliest evidence of leek cultivation dates back over 3,000 years ago to ancient Egypt, where they were depicted in tomb paintings.
Mediterranean & Europe: Leeks were native to the Mediterranean and most of Europe, including the British Isles.
Ancient Rome: The Romans cultivated leeks extensively, with Emperor Nero being a well-known "leek eater" who believed they improved his voice.
Introduction to Britain
Roman Influence: The Romans likely introduced leeks to Britain during their occupation.
Phoenician Traders: Alternatively, Phoenician traders may have brought them to Wales while trading for tin.
Welsh Emblem
Legend of St. David: A popular legend attributes the leek's status as a Welsh emblem to St. David, who supposedly ordered his soldiers to wear leeks on their helmets to distinguish themselves from the enemy in a 7th-century battle against the Saxons.
National Symbol: The leek has been adopted as a national emblem, appearing on the coronation gown of Queen Elizabeth II and as the cap badge for the Welsh Guards.



Leeks are poisonous to dogs and cats, as they contain thiosulfate, which can damage red blood cells and cause hemolytic anemia. While generally safe for humans in moderation, leeks, along with onions and garlic, can lead to severe illness, including vomiting, weakness, and potentially fatal consequences for pets, so keep them securely away from your animals.

Leeks are used to add a mild, sweet, onion-like flavor to a wide variety of dishes, serving as a versatile base for soups, stews, sauces, gratins, pies, and pasta, or as a simple side dish when buttered or braised. They can be a flavorful substitute for onions, adding subtle complexity and color to meals, and can even be stuffed or turned into vegetarian patties.
Yes, leeks are a classic companion plant for carrots and are widely believed to help deter the carrot fly. The strong smell of leeks (and other alliums like onions and chives) is thought to mask the scent of the carrots, making it harder for the carrot flies to locate their host plants.



Leeks offer medicinal benefits due to compounds like kaempferol, antioxidants, and inulin which may reduce inflammation, protect the heart, boost immunity, and support gut health. Traditionally, they've been used for respiratory issues like coughs and to promote blood circulation. They also act as a diuretic, aiding in weight loss and reducing water retention.
Cardiovascular Health: Kaempferol, an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory flavonoid, helps protect blood vessels and may reduce the risk of heart disease.
Anti-inflammatory: Bioactive compounds in leeks have anti-inflammatory properties, potentially easing conditions like atherosclerosis and arthritis.
Antioxidant Power: Leeks contain powerful antioxidants that combat harmful free radicals, protecting cells from damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
Digestive Health: The prebiotic fiber inulin feeds beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a healthy gut environment and potentially lowering cholesterol.
Weight Management: Their high water and fiber content promotes feelings of fullness, which can help with appetite control and natural weight loss.
Detoxification & Diuretic: Leeks have a mild diuretic effect, helping the body flush out excess fluids and toxins.
Cancer Prevention: The presence of kaempferol and other compounds may help fight cancer by reducing inflammation and inhibiting cancer cell growth.
Eye Health: They contain lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoids that protect the eyes from blue light damage and may reduce the risk of macular degeneration.
Traditional Uses
Respiratory Issues: In traditional medicine, leek bulbs have been used to treat initial stages of coughs, sore throats, and excess mucus.
Blood Circulation: Leeks are known for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis.
Important Considerations
Oxalates: Leeks are high in oxalates, which can form crystals and may be problematic for individuals with kidney stones.
Contact Dermatitis: Some people may experience skin irritation from handling certain types of leeks, like three-cornered leek.
How to Incorporate Leeks into Your Diet
Add them to soups, stews, and quiches.
Sauté them with other vegetables for a healthy side dish.
Use them in salads, potato dishes, and egg bakes.

[Eggy]

Kevin
I would love to read all of that but I have to take a "leek".
Negg