Leek soup: benefits, medicinal properties. Leek beneficial properties Leek health benefits and harms

Leeks are considered one of the miraculous remedies that are widely used in the field of folk healing. It has a huge range of useful components, and at the same time, it has a low calorie content, which makes it possible to use it for weight loss. There is a unique diet that makes it possible to lose more than 5 kg in a week by eating a hearty and healthy leek-based soup. What are the benefits of onion delicacy, and how to consume it correctly to lose extra pounds - further in the article.

Calorie content and chemical composition of leek soup

Drinking leek soup for weight loss is an excellent technique that allows you to lose about 5 kg in 7 days. excess weight without feeling hungry, tired or other discomfort. The dish is perfectly tolerated by the body, saturates it with all the necessary valuable components and vitamins.

The benefits of onion soup are due to its multifaceted chemical composition, which is presented:

B vitamins (B1, B2, B6) participate in redox processes, cleanse the body of toxins and harmful chemicals, improve the functioning of the digestive tract, promote normal absorption of proteins and fats
Vitamin A participates in protein synthesis, normalizes metabolic processes, serves as material for the formation of new and development of old cells
Vitamin E prevents premature aging of the body, accelerates cell regeneration, protects the body from the harmful effects of the external environment
Vitamin PP has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, reduces tension and fatigue, is necessary for the metabolism of protein and genetic material
Ascorbic acid increases the body's resistance to external factors, strengthens the immune system, eliminates toxins and reduces the negative effects of free radicals
Sodium activates the digestion process, has a beneficial effect on the functioning of the nervous system, stimulates the production of many enzymes
Phosphorus takes an active part in metabolism, stimulates the work of B vitamins, is an indispensable material for the formation of bone and dental tissues
Potassium has a positive effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular and nervous systems, is necessary for the normal functioning of the kidneys and liver, and takes part in the regulation of water balance
Calcium required for strengthening and normal growth of muscle and bone tissue, has a beneficial effect on the heart muscle, promotes the activation of many enzymes
Iron serves as a prevention of anemia, takes part in hematopoietic processes, has a positive effect on metabolism

Leek soup has a positive effect on the digestive tract, speeds up metabolic processes, helps eliminate toxins and waste from the body, thereby allowing you to get rid of a few extra pounds without harm to health.


The described dish has gained wide popularity all over the world, primarily for its unique ability to fight excess weight. The product is quite nutritious, allows you to quickly saturate the body, while filling it with all the active biological components, micro- and macroelements necessary for life. And most importantly, by adhering to the onion diet, you can remove excess fat from the most “problematic” areas of the body.

The calorie content of the soup is 44 kcal per 100 g, and it contains:

  • proteins - 1.4 g;
  • fats - 0.1 g;
  • carbohydrates - 10.4 g.

Did you know? During storage, the content of ascorbic acid in leek increases several times, which is why it is recommended to consume the vegetable not freshly picked, but after it has stood for one or two days.

Properties of soup for the human body

The chemical composition of onions is rich and varied, which determines its positive effect on the human body. It has virtually no contraindications, rarely causes allergic reactions, and, subject to dosages, can be consumed even or.


Benefit

In folk medicine, onions have long been known for their restorative properties and ability to strengthen the immune system. Meanwhile, the vegetable and dishes made from it have a wider sphere of influence.

  • Dietary onion soup boasts the following positive qualities:
  • accelerates fat burning processes, improves the functioning of the digestive system;
  • accelerates metabolic processes, has a positive effect on hematopoietic processes, strengthens blood vessels and joints;
  • helps cleanse the body, remove harmful substances, toxins and wastes;
  • has a beneficial effect on the condition of skin, hair and nails in women;
  • increases male strength and potency in the stronger sex;
  • normalizes the functioning of the heart vascular system, fights “bad” cholesterol;
  • Due to the content of a large amount of antioxidants, the product helps overcome bad mood, quickly restores strength, and relieves depression;
  • has a positive effect on the functioning internal organs, in particular, kidneys, liver, heart, organs of the genitourinary system;
  • reduces the risk of developing diabetes and cancer.

Important! Leeks, even undergoing heat treatment during the preparation of soup, do not lose their beneficial qualities and ability to positively affect human health.

Onion delicacy significantly reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes, which is extremely important for half of humanity. The soup quickly restores strength after heavy physical and mental stress, improves body tone, and improves mood.


Surprisingly, leek soup is allowed to be consumed by pregnant and lactating women. It allows you to improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, eliminate constipation or other problems with stool, and reduce the body’s susceptibility to stressful situations.

Harmful properties and contraindications

Onion soup has undeniable beneficial qualities, however, for some categories of people its consumption should be excluded or reduced to a minimum.

  • Experts recommend abandoning the onion diet for people who have:
  • peptic ulcer in the acute stage;
  • and spicy;
  • serious illnesses of the nervous system;
  • any disease in the acute phase;

The consumption of onion soup must be agreed with your doctor in case of any diseases of the cardiovascular system, kidneys and liver, since the vegetable can cause their aggravation.

Important! A diet based on leek soup is strictly prohibited for people suffering from diabetes of any type.

Is it possible to eat leek soup while losing weight?

Onion soup can not only be consumed, but also necessary. It is a complete source of vitamins, micro- and macroelements required for normal human life, while quickly saturating the body, eliminating the feeling of hunger, additionally cleansing, removing toxins and harmful substances.

The diet, which is based on the consumption of leek soup, is quite democratic and practically does not limit the use of the main dish. You can eat soup at any time of the day, as soon as you feel hungry.

Video: leek and potato cream soup

At the same time, it can be combined with other products: vegetables, fruits, juices, honey, beef or low-fat fish. The developers of the described onion diet promise that, if followed correctly, the user will be able to experience amazing results - about 5 kg of weight lost in 7 days.

How does soup work in the fight against excess weight?

As noted above, the weight loss system, which is based on the use of onion soup, is designed for a period of seven days. In a week, depending on how accurately you follow the weight loss rules, you can lose from 3 to 5 kg. At the same time, consumption of greens, vegetables, fruits, lean beef or veal meat, and fish is allowed.

It is prohibited to eat sweets, flour, alcoholic drinks, and smoked foods. The soup can be consumed in any quantity, and at the same time, strictly observe the drinking regime, drink a sufficient amount of water per day, at least 30 ml per 1 kg of body weight.

  • The benefits of onion dishes for weight loss are extremely great, they:
  • accelerates metabolic and metabolic processes;
  • has a beneficial effect on the digestive system, strengthens joints;
  • promotes rapid fat burning in problem areas of the body;
  • increases vitality and mood;
  • improves the condition of the skin, hair and nails;
  • has a positive effect on the entire body.

In this case, the dish acts as a strong fat burner, in which, thanks to increased metabolism and accelerated metabolism, fat tissue is burned in those places where its maximum accumulations are located.

The main rules of use for weight loss

The basis of the onion diet, of course, is soup, which can be consumed in any quantity. Meanwhile, experts advise eating it throughout the day, dividing it into three main meals: morning, lunch and evening.


The approximate menu for the week is as follows:

Monday three meals of soup, between them it is allowed to have snacks with fruits, for example, bananas, apples. Nutritionists do not recommend using grapes as a snack, as they contain high amounts of sugar.
Tuesday In addition to onion dishes, the consumption of baked, stewed or boiled vegetables is allowed. Among vegetables, it is better to exclude potatoes, all legumes, and corn.
Wednesday you can repeat the menu of the first or second days
Thursday It is recommended to eat vegetables between meals and add a glass of kefir between meals.
Friday to the main ingredient you can add 250–300 g of lean baked fish, which can be replaced with beef or chicken breast
Saturday onion soup can be diluted with any number of green vegetables
Sunday on the last day, it is recommended to add to the menu a stew of stewed vegetables, 200 g of rice cooked in a decoction of vegetables, grapefruit or orange

Experts advise taking your last meal two hours before going to bed at night. However, if the feeling of hunger is too great, you are allowed to eat a small portion of onion delicacy at night.

Did you know? In European countries, the popularity of leek is extremely enormous. For example, in Britain there is even a unique “Society of Leek Lovers and Admirers.” Members of the society regularly meet and discuss issues of growing and caring for vegetables, and discuss recipes for creative dishes made from them.

A diet based on leek soup is a safe for health, express weight loss method, if you follow the basic rules, you can get rid of 5 kg of excess weight in just seven days. The diet described is considered completely democratic and gentle, however, before experiencing its effect on yourself, you must carefully read all the contraindications and possible adverse reactions.

Leeks are no less beneficial for human health than other varieties. The vegetable helps increase hemoglobin levels, improves immunity, and helps strengthen the human nervous system. Leek is an aphrodisiac that helps solve problems with male sexual dysfunction.

The vegetable is useful for those who suffer from high blood pressure. Onions are recommended for pregnant women due to their high content folic acid. It prevents brain defects in children. Leeks are successfully used for weight loss, as they help cleanse the body of toxins.

Nutritional value and composition

Leeks are extremely beneficial for human health, as they contain many vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain good health and a positive attitude.

Useful substance Contents per 100 g of vegetable
Ash 1.3 g
Starch 0.4 g
Mono- and disaccharides 6 g
Water 90 g
Organic acids 0.1 g
Dietary fiber 2.3 g
Vitamins:
PP 0.7 mg
N 1.5 mg
E 0.9 mg
WITH 30 mg
B9 28 mcg
B6 0.3 mg
B5 0.1 mg
B2 0.04 mg
B1 0.1 mg
B6 333 mcg
Beta carotene 2 mg
Iron 1 mg
Phosphorus 55 mg
Potassium 220 mg
Sodium 48 mg
Magnesium 10 mg
Calcium 78 mg

The calorie content of the product is 36 kcal. The vegetable contains 2 g of protein, 0.2 g of fat and 6.3 g of carbohydrates. Energy ratio of BJU: 22%/5%/70%.

The benefits of the vegetable for the human body are due to the fact that it contains many healing substances. However, it is important to remember that you should not use it too much.

In order not to cause harm to health, the amount of leeks eaten should not exceed 100–200 g.

As a component of baby food, this vegetable should be added from the fourth part of the onion, which should be included in the puree with the addition of other products.

In order to enhance the therapeutic effect, you can consume leek and celery juice.

The healing properties of the vegetable help cope with many diseases of internal organs and systems:

1. Different types of anemia.
2. Problems with potency in men.
3. Disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.
4. High blood pressure.
5. Diseases of the cardiovascular system.
6. Nervous system disorders.
7. Impaired concentration, memory, and the brain’s ability to process complex information.
8. High cholesterol.
9. Arthritis, gout, cystitis.
10. Respiratory tract diseases.
11. Oncological diseases.
12. Impaired visual acuity.
13. Vitamin deficiency.
14. Rheumatism.
15. Depression.
16. Physical and mental fatigue.
17. Metabolic disorders.

Masks prepared with leeks will complement your daily facial skin care. In order to prepare a natural and harmless peeling, you need to apply a vegetable-based paste to the skin. This product has effective cleansing properties. If you regularly rub a mask of leek pulp into the roots of your curls, this will help get rid of dandruff, improve the growth of strands, and give your hair shine and silkiness.

The vegetable can help strengthen your nails. To do this, finely chopped onion is applied to the nail area and wrapped in cling film. The mask must be kept on for half an hour. Leek is widely used in folk medicine as a remedy for sunburn and calluses. To do this, you need to apply vegetable pulp for 1.5 hours.

Harm and contraindications of onions

Leek has contraindications for use. Vegetables should not be consumed if a person has the following pathologies:

  • Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum.
  • Increased stomach acidity.
  • Increased blood pressure.
  • Lactation period.
  • Tendency to form kidney stones.
  • Allergy to nickel and its complex compounds.

The vegetable should be stored in a dark and cool place. The period should not exceed 6 months.

There are several ways to prepare food for the winter.

Freezing

Vegetables should not be washed before freezing. If this had to be done, then the onions must be thoroughly dried so that no water remains. The top layer of the onion must be removed, damaged areas must be trimmed, and the roots must be trimmed.

Next, the onion is cut into small circles or finely chopped. The product is placed in the freezer for several hours. After which it must be taken out, placed in sealed bags and stored in the freezer.

The shelf life when using the freezing method is 3 months.

In the refrigerator compartment

It must be taken into account that the smell of the vegetable can be absorbed by other foods in the refrigerator. Therefore, it must be packaged in cling film.

Leeks should not be washed before going into the refrigerator. The shelf life this way is about 14 days.

Drying

The entire stem is used to dry the vegetable. The vegetable is thoroughly washed and cut into slices.

Pickling

When pickling a vegetable, the green part of the plant must be cut off. White stems are cut into circles, poured with boiling marinade, which includes water (1 l), coarse salt (50 g), granulated sugar (70 g), apple cider vinegar (100 ml).

The resulting mixture is transferred into pre-sterilized glass jars and sealed with iron lids.

Leeks in cooking

All varieties of leeks have a delicate, refined taste. It is added to pies, meat or vegetable casseroles. Leeks are used for stewing in cream or sautéing in oil with other vegetables. You can cook it as an independent dish. In addition, leeks are included in many recipes for preparing side dishes with meat, and are added to salads and soup.

A fresh product without signs of wilting is suitable for use in cooking. The bulb should be white and dense, and the leaves should be green. It is better to buy it immediately before using it for food.

The vegetable requires careful washing. This is due to the fact that often, due to the structural features of the lower part of the plant, the stems can accumulate a lot of dirt and stones. During the preparation process, the leaves are cut off and the roots are removed. After which each onion is cut lengthwise and washed thoroughly under a strong stream of water.

This easy dish is somewhat similar to a Caesar salad, but because it contains leeks, it is more tender.

Cooking process:

1. The white part of the vegetable (8 pieces) is placed in salted water and cooked for 10 minutes. The finished vegetable is removed with a slotted spoon and washed. cold water.
2. Chicken fillet (2 pieces) is fried on both sides in olive oil (1 tbsp.). The meat must be cut into small cubes.
3. To prepare the dressing, mix 1 yolk with mustard (1 tbsp) and the same amount of olive oil. Add parmesan (2 tbsp) and 1 peeled. To the resulting mixture you need to add apple cider vinegar (1 tbsp) and cream (2 tbsp). Add salt to taste, pepper, mix thoroughly.
4. The cooled leek is cut lengthwise into 2 parts and placed on a plate. Pieces of chicken fillet are distributed on top of the vegetable and poured with dressing.
5. The salad is decorated with Parmesan, chopped parsley, and croutons.

The delicate texture of this soup gives it a pleasant, unique flavor. In addition, this dish is very healthy due to the high content of potassium, the source of which is leeks. This will improve your metabolism and overall well-being.

1. Potatoes (400 g), carrots (50 g) and onions (1 pc.) are peeled and coarsely chopped. Leeks (400 g) are also cut into large pieces.
2. Prepared vegetables are fried in olive oil (2 tablespoons) in a deep frying pan for 12 minutes. Salt and pepper the dish to taste.
3. Vegetables are poured with beef broth (800 ml), brought to a boil and cooked for 60 minutes over low heat.
4. The soup is crushed using a blender. The dish is served hot with the addition of sour cream.

Leeks with meat

This dish uses a minimum of ingredients but is delicious and full of flavor.

Step by step recipe:

1. Rinse leeks (1 kg) thoroughly. Next, the vegetable is peeled from green leaves and cut into 3 cm pieces. It must be placed in a baking dish, previously greased with oil.
2. Fry the onion until golden brown. After this, minced meat (200 g) is added to the onion.
3. Instead of minced meat, whole pieces of meat can be used.
4. The meat should be lightly fried on all sides until a crust forms. Then broth (100 ml), tomato paste (1 tbsp) and spices to taste are added to the pan.
5. Bring the sauce to a boil. Pour boiling sauce over leeks. Place the dishes in the oven for one hour at 190 degrees.

Thanks to these simple recipes You can saturate your diet with useful substances and vitamins.

Few people know that not only the white part of the stem of the leek is edible, but also the green part. And in general, this unusual vegetable is practically not widespread in our country as a crop. Leeks, the benefits and harms of which few people know, are undeservedly deprived of attention. By the way, this plant can safely be called extraordinary. Today we'll figure it out.

Benefits of leeks

About beneficial properties Entire treatises have been written on all types of bows. But it is leeks that doctors recommend eating for certain diseases.

Impaired digestion. The plant contains large number coarse fibers that cause intestinal motility to work actively. At the same time, green feathers do not cause increased gas formation and do not harm beneficial microorganisms.

Disturbances in the proper functioning of the nervous system. Leeks are simply a storehouse of vitamins and microelements. For example, phosphorus and magnesium. They are the ones who help the psyche work like a clock.

Inflammation. Of course, as an independent medicine, leeks will not cope with diseases. But, as a remedy as part of complex therapy, it is very effective. For example, for certain inflammations of the joints (gout, arthrosis, arthritis), doctors strongly advise adding both parts of the stem to food.

Oncological diseases. No, leeks are not a panacea. It won't cure cancer. But recent laboratory studies have shown that regular consumption of this healthy vegetable significantly reduces the risk of primary disease. It also helps to curb the growth of already identified tumors.

Advice. Recent studies have shown that the opposite occurs in smokers who consume large quantities of leeks. Their risk of developing tumors increases sharply. So choose: either leeks or cigarettes.

Anemia. The entire stem of the magic onion contains easily digestible iron in an accessible form. Therefore, people with low level hemoglobin will be very useful to include leeks in your menu.

Interesting. Did you know that iron is absorbed by the body much faster if it comes with vitamin C? In this regard, nature generously endowed leeks. The content of trace elements in the stem almost perfectly complements each other.

Hypertension. The presence of potassium in leek juice makes it a truly valuable plant. After all, it is potassium that is responsible for the proper functioning of the heart and vascular system. Regular consumption of competent doses of medicinal onions allows the human body to normalize blood pressure and water-salt balance.

Atherosclerosis. The fibers in the leek stem act as an oxidizing agent. They bind “bad” cholesterol already at the initial stage of digestion. It is this process that reduces the risk of the appearance of unfortunate plaques and blockage of blood vessels.

ARVI. There is no need to talk about the antibacterial properties of onion essential oils. Leek is no exception. For example, if you don’t like the taste of onions, then feel free to eat leeks in the cold season. This will be an excellent prevention against colds and upper respiratory tract ailments.

No, you shouldn’t make masks from greens. Much greater benefit will come from eating leeks internally. The leaves and stems contain large amounts of ascorbic acid. It is responsible for the normal synthesis of collagen fibers. But almost 50% of the human body consists of them.

So a diet with leek dishes has a beneficial effect on:

  • ligaments
  • joints
  • nails

As an experiment, just try eating a serving of leek salad every day. And after about 30 days, evaluate the condition of your skin. We assure you that you will really like the result. And you won't need expensive creams. After all, the body itself will produce the right amount of collagen.

Harm of leeks

Until now, it was believed that harm from leeks could only occur in one case: overeating. But independent researchers conducted their own experiments and proved that leeks do cause harm.

This situation occurs when:

  1. Individual intolerance to nickel and its alloys. The high content of this element in the stem and leaves is a warning for allergies to this metal.
  2. High acidity. The vegetable itself increases the acidity of gastric juice. Therefore, people who are aware of this feature should refrain from excessive consumption of vegetables.
  3. Breastfeeding. No, leeks will not cause any harm as such. But it will ruin the taste of the milk if mommy is fond of dishes with leeks. And it’s unlikely that the baby will like it.
  4. Diarrhea. Leeks with this disease can further aggravate the problem. Plus, coarse fibers will further irritate the already inflamed intestines.
  5. Urolithiasis in the acute stage. The fact is that leek juice has a strong diuretic effect. Therefore, in case of relapse, instead of benefiting, it can harm the body. The kidneys are inflamed and cannot cope with their task. And then there’s the additional load, which will 100% lead to dire consequences.

If you know your ailments, then watch your plate carefully. Then leeks will not cause you any unexpected harm. If you are not aware of possible health problems, you will receive very valuable advice: do not overeat. Then everything will be fine.

Interesting facts about the onion doctor

It’s strange to read now, but in ancient times people considered leeks to be the strongest aphrodisiac. And they even recommended eating it in large quantities, eating it with garlic and celery. Allegedly, this mixture significantly increases male libido, and women are completely crazy about it.

We do not recommend trying to seduce the lady of your heart after such a vitamin filling, brandishing a repaired “libido”. Because the amber after this mixture will be appropriate. And it is possible that the conquered mamzel simply will not have time to look at you and appreciate you, because she will faint from the miasma.

Scientists say that leeks bring the greatest benefit to the human body in winter and spring. And it’s not a lack of vitamin greens. Simply, with proper storage in the stem and feathers, the amount of microelements and nutrients increases by about 2 times.

Therefore, it is better not to eat leeks freshly picked from the garden. It needs to be allowed to sit in a cool place for at least a week. If it is possible to preserve the plant longer, then by all means do so.

The benefits of leeks for the entire digestive system as a whole are absolutely invaluable. Here is just a small part of the effect of fresh greens on the body:

  • appetite stimulation
  • increasing gastric acid production without irritation
  • antimicrobial effect
  • improvement of liver function (choleretic effect)
  • anthelmintic effect
  • gentle work of intestinal peristalsis
  • inhibition of the growth of pathogenic microflora

Plus, leek has a very low calorie content. Which undoubtedly makes it a leader in preparing diets for people who want to lose weight.

Did you know that leeks are recommended for a special diet for diabetics? Because it has a negligibly low glycemic index. Therefore, the plant practically does not increase blood glucose levels. And leek does not interact with the thyroid gland and does not affect its function. This is another reason for diabetics to reverse their close attention for a miracle onion.

Many people know the benefits of B vitamins. They help the brain fight depression, activate thought processes, improve memory and concentrate attention. But few people know that the amount of these vitamins in leeks is off the charts.

Advice. As a rule, leeks are boiled, stewed and baked. In this case, the beneficial qualities are practically not reduced, but there is no harm left at all.

Now you know almost everything about leeks. Its benefits and harms are also not a mystery to you. Therefore, feel free to eat this most valuable plant, feed your household and do not get sick.

Video: medicinal leek!

Leeks can be called a unique representative of the onion family. The underground part of this plant is significantly smaller in size than a regular onion, but its leaves are much larger. But in terms of the content of useful substances, leek is not inferior, and in some ways even superior to its counterparts. In addition, this type of onion does not have a pronounced irritating effect on the mucous membranes, and its taste is not so hot and even sweetish.

During storage, the concentration of vitamin C in leeks increases.

Leeks can be stored well until spring. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that during storage the amount of vitamin C, which is very unstable in the external environment, not only does not decrease, but rather increases by 1.5-2 times. That is why, by eating this plant in winter and spring, we help the body fight vitamin deficiency and increase its resistance to infectious diseases.

Leeks are rich in B vitamins. Its regular use helps improve the condition of the nervous system and brain activity. Previously, it was even recommended to eat it for depression, fatigue, memory disorders and attention problems.

It also contains quite a lot of vitamin A and carotenoids, which are its precursors. This vitamin is necessary for the synthesis of the main visual pigment rhodopsin. So eating leeks can relieve vision problems. Retinol, along with vitamin C, is involved in providing the body's immune defense, and a number of studies have confirmed its antitumor properties.

Due to the fact that leeks contain a large amount of salts, they have a diuretic effect. It is useful to eat for rheumatism and especially for.

Leeks for the heart and blood vessels

Leeks are a very healthy vegetable for the cardiovascular system. Its white and green parts contain a large number of macroelements that nourish the myocardium. Due to the high potassium content, normal rhythmic contractile activity of the heart muscles is ensured. This type of onion contains substances that normalize lipid metabolism and have.

Ascorbic acid, which it contains a lot, is involved in the processes of collagen and elastin synthesis. These substances are the basis connective tissue, which is half the human body weight. It is collagen that is responsible for the elasticity and strength of blood vessels, ligaments, skin and other organs. Vitamin C is needed for normal hematopoiesis; without it, it is impossible to fully absorb iron in the gastrointestinal tract, which is necessary for the synthesis of hemoglobin. By the way, this plant also contains iron itself, so its use is indicated for.

Benefits for digestion

Even ancient healers noticed the benefits of leeks for diseases of the digestive system. This vegetable improves appetite, stimulates the production of gastric juice and increases its acidity, without irritating the gastric mucosa. It also has a choleretic effect and improves liver function. Phytoncides and essential oils contained in leeks have anthelmintic and antimicrobial effects; they prevent the growth of pathogenic microflora in the intestines; their activity against streptococcus and staphylococcus has been proven.

Also, the juicy, dense white part of the leek contains dietary fiber, which provides vital activity and stimulates its motor skills. This type of onion is recommended to be added to your diet by those who wish, and for this purpose it is advisable to consume it fresh. The calorie content of leeks is very low, only 36 kcal per 100 g of this plant.

Can you eat leeks if you have diabetes?

This product is highly recommended for use if you have diabetes. It belongs to products with very low glycemic index(15), that is, it has virtually no effect on blood sugar levels. At the same time, it contains vitamins and other substances that are necessary to prevent complications of this serious disease. Onions help normalize fat metabolism, which is often disrupted in diabetes.

How to cook leeks?


Heat-treated leeks can be used to prepare various dishes.

Many housewives often wonder how to prepare this or that product in order to preserve its benefits as much as possible, and leeks are no exception. Of course, any vegetables are most useful when fresh, since heat treatment destroys some of their vitamins.

Leeks are very often used as a component of salads; they are often replaced by onions, which contain much more irritating substances. The green leaves of the plant are sometimes quite tough, so it is recommended to chop them very finely - this will make them easier to digest. Provitamin A and retinol itself are fat-soluble vitamins, so the body needs fats to fully absorb them. It is better to season a salad with leeks with vegetable oil, and to make it even healthier, it is better to choose unrefined oil.

Unfortunately, sometimes eating leeks fresh is not advisable. In such cases, it is stewed, baked, fried and used as a side dish for dishes. By the way, heat-treated onions can also be added to salads. This vegetable is added to soups and used as a filling for pies. When prepared in this way, onions, of course, lose some of their ascorbic acid and other vitamins, but they retain their mineral salts and dietary fiber in full. That is why even in this form this onion is beneficial for the body.

Harm of leeks

Leeks are contraindicated during exacerbation inflammatory diseases gastrointestinal tract, it should be consumed fresh with caution when increased acidity gastric juice.

You should be careful with this product, as it can give the milk a taste that is unpleasant for the child.

Find out from our selection how to prepare incredibly tasty and healthy leek soup: vegetable, chicken broth or water, with cheese or rice.

If you believe the legends, onion soup was invented by King Louis XV when he had an unsuccessful hunt and was left in a forest dwelling without dinner. Hence the name of onion soup - a royal dish for beggars. You can prepare it quickly, and with our step-by-step recommendations, it’s completely easy.

A stewed onion dish is a great option that the whole family will love.

  • cream - to taste;
  • leek + red onion
  • pepper and salt to taste;
  • 10 ml olive oil;
  • clean water – 250 ml;
  • 60 g cheese;
  • 60 g bacon;
  • 2 slices of white bread.

Peel the red onion and leek. Chop the onion into strips along the fibers. Remove the bacon from the freezer, remove the salt from it and cut into thin cubes.

Place the bacon in a saucepan in heated oil, add the onion for frying, remove the cracklings and pour in a little olive oil. Simmer the onion until classic golden color.

Add water to the saucepan with the onions and simmer the soup mixture over moderate heat for half an hour. Then season with salt and black pepper.

Pour the finished soup into a ceramic pot, cover it with a slice of stale bread so that the entire surface of the soup is covered. Pour cream on top of the bread, sprinkle with cracklings and grated cheese.

Place the pot in an oven preheated to 200ºC. After 10 minutes, the onion soup can be removed. Decorate it with herbs and you can start dinner.

Recipe 2: leek soup from Alexander Vasiliev

  • Leek – 2 pcs.
  • Onions – 1/3 pcs.
  • Potatoes – 3 pcs.
  • Carrots – 1 pc.
  • Garlic – 2 cloves
  • Chicken wings – 6 pcs.
  • Bay leaf – 5 leaves
  • Black peppercorns
  • White peppercorns
  • Coarse salt

Coarsely chop the leek and place in a saucepan.

Add chopped onions.

Cut the carrots into rings and add to the pan.

Cut the potatoes into cubes and add to the rest of the ingredients.

Place garlic (coarsely chopped), even and white peppercorns, and bay leaf into the pan. Chicken wings are also in the pan.

Pour water into the pan, add salt and bring to a boil.

When boiling, reduce heat and simmer until tender, 40 minutes.

For a dietary version of leek soup from Alexander Vasiliev, discard the chicken wings.

Recipe 3: leek puree soup with cream (step-by-step photo)

  • Onion 100 g
  • Leek 700 g
  • Butter 50 g
  • Premium wheat flour 25 g
  • Chicken broth 425 ml
  • Milk 425 ml
  • Salt 8 g
  • Ground black pepper 5 g
  • Cream 33% 6 tbsp
  • Parsley (greens) 20 g

Peel the onion and cut into small cubes. Let's cut the leek into rings.

Saute the onion and leek in butter until soft, but do not let it brown.

Add sifted flour and mix well.

Add milk, broth and spices. Cover the pan with a lid and let simmer over medium heat until the vegetables are fully cooked.

Puree the soup with a blender.

Before serving, add cream (at the rate of one tablespoon per serving) and parsley.

Recipe 4: How to make leek soup with cream cheese

Very tasty, healthy and easy to prepare soup. Useful for everyone!

  • Leek - 400 g
  • Potatoes (medium size) - 3 pcs.
  • Onions (small) - 2 pcs.
  • Butter - 50 g
  • Processed cheese (any kind, preferably soft) - 150 g
  • Black pepper (ground)
  • Coriander (fresh, optional) - ½ bunch.

Cut the potatoes and onions into cubes, and cut the leeks crosswise into small pieces (if the specimen is large, cut lengthwise first).

Place the chopped vegetables in a saucepan, add oil and water to the bottom and, stirring occasionally, simmer under the lid over low heat for 5-7 minutes.

When everything is cooked, add processed cheese, if you like, and coriander. When the cheese melts, add a little ground black pepper and the soup is ready. All that remains is to turn it into puree.

Recipe 5: Leek Vichyssoise Onion Soup with Potatoes

It pleasantly surprises you with its ease of preparation, ingredients, and most importantly, taste. The soup turns out incredibly tasty.

  • Leek 1-2 stalks
  • Onions 1 pc.
  • Potatoes 4 pcs. (average)
  • Water 300 ml.
  • Cream 200 ml
  • Butter 50 g

We cut the white part of the leek into half rings, remove the green leaves, they will not be useful to us.

Chop the onion.

Peel the potatoes and cut into pieces. There is no need to cut the potatoes into neat cubes, since you will still have to grind the soup in a blender, so just cut it into small slices.

Melt the butter in a thick-bottomed saucepan and add the leeks.

After a couple of minutes, add the onions to the leek and stir. It is important to ensure that the onions are not fried until golden brown, but rather stewed. Leave for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Pour a glass of boiling water over the onions and potatoes and wait for the soup to boil. Cook until the potatoes are ready, 20-25 minutes.

After the potatoes are cooked, add the cream, stirring the soup constantly.

At your discretion, salt and pepper the soup, add your favorite spices. I added some pepper at the very beginning (I don’t know why), but it still turned out delicious.

We take out a blender/mixer and turn regular soup into puree soup.

The finished soup can be served with croutons, grated cheese or just herbs. It is delicious both hot and cold!

Recipe 6, step by step: vegetable soup with leeks

A very simple soup to assemble and prepare, which can be prepared with chicken broth, and with bouillon cubes, you can turn it into a puree soup if desired. It is delicious hot, but also good cold if you add a little lemon juice and yogurt.

  • 170-200 g white part of leek
  • 1 large or 2 small carrots
  • 1-2 celery stalks
  • 1 onion larger than average
  • 1-2 cloves of garlic
  • 300-350 g potatoes
  • salt, ground pepper
  • 2-3 tbsp. tablespoons olive oil (regular vegetable oil)
  • 1.6-1.8 liters of water
  • 300-400 g chicken meat or 2 bouillon cubes

3-4 minutes before turning off, add chopped chicken meat (or don’t add it if we didn’t cook it). Taste and season with salt and pepper. We can turn the finished soup into a puree soup, for which we use a blender.

Recipe 7, simple: leek soup with chicken broth

Wonderful, light and very tasty onion soup. There are many recipes where the cooking process is quite lengthy, including simmering in the oven. I suggest a fairly quick option. At the same time, the taste and aroma will delight you with their sophistication.

  • Sunflower oil - 4 tablespoons;
  • chicken broth - 1.5 liters;
  • potatoes - 4 pcs;
  • leek - 1 piece;
  • greens - 100 gr

Peel the leeks from the top layers. Remove the top, leaving only the white and light green parts. The leaves should not be thrown away; they can be used when you prepare vegetable broth. Cut the leek along the stem and rinse well. Soil sometimes gets caught between the layers of onions. Then cut the leek into half rings no more than 5 mm wide.

We take a pan in which we will cook the soup. Pour in sunflower oil. And put the pan on the fire.

When the oil is hot, add the chopped onion to the pan.

Fry it a little, stirring from time to time.

While the onion is frying, chop the potatoes.

Now add the potatoes to the pan with the onions and fry for a couple more minutes.

At this stage, you decide how high-calorie your soup will be. You can add chicken broth or vegetable broth. I have had cases when I didn’t have ready-made broth, but I really wanted this soup. I filled it with water or used a bouillon cube. This did not spoil the taste of the finished dish at all. But most of all I love this soup with low-fat chicken broth.

Now bring to a boil and cook over medium heat until the potatoes are fully cooked. Salt and pepper to taste. After turning off the heat under the pan, I advise you to leave it for about 20 minutes so that the soup can infuse. Our soup is ready; when serving, add herbs to it to improve the taste.

Recipe 8: French cream leek soup (with photos step by step)

At the same time thick, creamy, tender and satisfying. And also delicious and warming!

  • 1 large leek (or 2 small ones)
  • 2-3 medium potatoes
  • 30 g butter
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1 liter of water or broth
  • 150 ml heavy cream
  • bay leaf
  • A couple of thyme sprigs
  • Salt, pepper

Cut off the tough green leaves and root of the leek.

We cut the stem in half lengthwise and rinse it very well with water, because... Leeks are very harmful and often there is a lot of sand and earth among the leaves.

Cut leeks and garlic into small pieces.

Melt the butter in a saucepan or saucepan, add the onion and garlic and simmer until soft over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.

Cut the peeled potatoes into cubes. Add to the onion, fill everything with water or broth, add bay leaf and thyme. Salt and pepper. Cook for about 15 minutes until the potatoes are soft.

When the potatoes are cooked, remove from the heat, take out the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Puree the mixture using an immersion blender.

Pour in the cream, stir, return to the heat and bring to a boil. Taste and adjust the amount of salt and pepper if necessary.

Decorate with cream, thyme leaves or any herbs.

Bon appetit!

Recipe 9: Hearty Baked Rice and Leek Soup

The soup can be cooked with either meat or vegetable broth. In the latter case there will be a Lenten option.

  • Broth (1,750 l - for soup, 250 ml - for side dish) - 2 l
  • Carrots (1 medium thin) - 60 g
  • Celery root - 50 g
  • Potatoes - 3 pcs.
  • Leeks - 2 pcs.
  • Bell pepper (red) - ½ piece
  • Garlic - 2 teeth.
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Rice (round grain (arborio)) - 100 g
  • Chicken egg - 1 pc.
  • Parmesan - 50 g
  • Greens (to taste)

You can use chicken broth. Or you can cook a vegetable one, this will require 2 liters of water, 1 medium carrot (80 g), 1 large onion, 50 g celery root, 1 celery stick, a pinch of black pepper, 4 allspice, 3-4 cloves.

Peel the vegetables, cut into pieces, add cold water, bring to a boil and cook over low heat for about an hour. Add spices 10-15 minutes before readiness.

Strain the finished broth through several layers of gauze, squeeze out the vegetables and throw them away; we won’t need them.

Cut the carrots into thin slices, celery into squares, peppers into diamonds, potatoes into cubes.

Leeks grow in the ground, so sand can often be hidden between their scales.

Wash the leek, cut into half rings, place in a colander and rinse very thoroughly again under running water. Let the water drain. Chop the garlic.

In a saucepan with a thick bottom, heat 2 tbsp. l. vegetable oil and fry the carrots and celery for about 3 minutes.

Add potatoes and fry for another 3 minutes.

Pour in the hot broth, bring to a boil, add salt and simmer over low heat for 5 minutes.

Pour bell pepper and leek and cook over low heat for another 3 minutes. Turn off the heat, add the garlic, cover the soup with a lid and let it brew for 10 minutes.

Rinse the rice thoroughly, pour in the remaining hot broth and cook over low heat.

Until all the broth is absorbed and the rice becomes soft.

Place the rice in a bowl, cool slightly, add 2 tbsp. l. finely chopped greens.

Add 2 tbsp. l. grated Parmesan cheese on a small grater.

And 1 lightly beaten egg, mix.

Place in a mold and bake in the oven until done.

When serving, place a portion of the casserole into plates.

Pour the soup, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Recipe 10: Potato soup with leeks and vegetable broth

Light vegetable soup. Fragrant and very tasty. Can be served as a regular soup or as a puree soup.

  • Leeks - 3 pcs.
  • Carrots - 1 pc.
  • Tomatoes - 3 pcs.
  • Potatoes - 2-3 pcs.
  • Garlic - 1-2 teeth.
  • Vegetable oil
  • Vegetable broth - 1.5-2 l
  • Dill greens - 1 bunch
  • Ground black pepper

Cut the leek into rings.

Cut the carrots into small cubes.

Cut the potatoes as desired.

Fry on vegetable oil leeks and carrots.

Pour in vegetable broth or water.

Fry chopped garlic in a frying pan.

Add blanched, peeled, diced tomato. Salt, pepper, add dill.

Simmer the tomatoes for about 15 minutes.

Pour the tomatoes into the soup, add the potatoes and simmer the leek soup for about 15 minutes.