Family recipe: Leek dip (prasa)
The moment those leeks hit the hot pan, Iām instantly transported back in time. š
Growing up in a Balkan home, cooking was never about precise measurements or strict rules. It was about intuition, patience, and a quiet warmth that filled the whole house. Watching my Mama, Majka or Nana move around the kitchen, turning simple, humble ingredients into comfort on a plate, taught me that food is how we hold onto our best memories.
This simple leek dish is a piece of my childhood. Simple times, rich flavors, and unforgettable warmth.
Here is my version of a Balkan tradition.
Leek Dip (prasa)
- 4 tbsps salted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large leaks (most of the top green trimmed)
- 1/4 sour cream
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tsp salt
- Pinch black pepper
Directions:
This recipe makes a small side for 2 people. If you are serving a crowd, I would double it up. You can also watch a quick video here.
- Clean your leek stalks. Cut off the end and about 5-6 inches of the green parts, which are often tough to eat.
- Cut across length wise and slice them thinly.
- Leeks are very dirty so rinsing/ draining them under cold water, 5-6 times is necessary.
- In a deep pan, on medium heat, add butter and let it melt. Once melted you can add the olive oil and sliced, clean leeks.
- Add salt and pepper.
- Stir and cover loosely to wilt down and absorb the butter, oil and seasonings. About 4-5 minutes.
- Mix one or two more times. Until it looks a bit charred or at parts, translucent.
- Add sour cream, then heavy whipping cream and stir to combine.
- Lower the heat to low medium and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Taste for salt and add if needed.
Serve with fresh bread or baguette, veggies or as a side dish.
Enjoy.
Drop a comment if there is a specific food memory that takes you straight back in time! Until next time, check out my bread recipe here.
X, Dijana
