Creamy Braised Leeks with Crispy Prosciutto

Creamy Braised Leeks with Crispy Prosciutto ingredients

• 4 slices prosciutto
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 medium leeks
• 2 cloves garlic
• 0.5 cup dry white wine
• 0.75 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 3 fresh thyme sprigs
• 0.5 cup heavy cream
• 0.5 tsp kosher salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper

How to make Creamy Braised Leeks with Crispy Prosciutto

1. Prepare the prosciutto: Place 4 thinly sliced pieces of prosciutto in a cold, large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until crisp. Remove the crispy prosciutto to a plate lined with paper towels to drain, then crumble once cooled.
2. Pour off all but 1 tablespoon of the rendered prosciutto fat (or use 1 tablespoon olive oil if less fat remains) from the skillet. Increase heat to medium. Add the 4 medium leeks, sliced into 1-inch rounds, to the skillet.
3. Sauté the leeks for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and turn translucent. Be sure to clean the leeks thoroughly before slicing to remove any grit.
4. Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Do not allow the garlic to brown.
5. Pour in 0.5 cup dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to deglaze and incorporate any flavorful browned bits. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the wine to reduce by half.
6. Stir in 0.75 cup chicken or vegetable broth and add 3 fresh thyme sprigs. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and braise for 15-20 minutes.
7. The leeks should be very tender and almost melt-in-your-mouth. Remove the thyme sprigs from the skillet and discard them.
8. Stir in 0.5 cup heavy cream. Increase the heat slightly to medium-low and continue to cook, uncovered, for another 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. The leeks will absorb some of the creamy liquid.
9. Season the braised leeks with 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt and 0.25 teaspoon black pepper, adjusting to your taste. Remember the prosciutto is salty.
10. Transfer the creamy braised leeks to a serving dish and garnish generously with the crumbled crispy prosciutto just before serving. This adds a delightful salty crunch.

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