Ingredients
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 leek, finely sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, sliced
- 1 sprig rosemary, diced
- 1 sprig thyme
- Handful parsley, finely chopped
Beans & Dairy
- 1 tin drained cannellini beans
- 30g cheddar cheese
- 15g vegetarian pecorino, grated
- 1 tablespoon butter
Liquids & Seasonings
- ⅛ cup white wine (approx. 30ml)
- ¾ cup vegetable stock (approx. 180ml)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 0.5 lemon, juice and zest
Instructions
- Prepare the Leeks and Aromatics: Add the butter to a saucepan and melt it over low heat. Add the finely sliced leeks, sliced garlic, thyme, and diced rosemary to the pan and cook gently for 8 to 10 minutes until the leeks are soft and fragrant.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the white wine and continue cooking for another 2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate and deepen the flavor of the vegetables.
- Add Beans and Stock: Add the drained cannellini beans, vegetable stock, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer to Combine Flavors: Cook the mixture for an additional 8 to 10 minutes over medium-low heat to allow the beans to heat through and the cheese to melt, creating a creamy texture.
- Finish with Cheese and Herbs: Grate the vegetarian pecorino over the top, adjust seasoning if needed, then add the lemon juice and zest. Scatter the finely chopped parsley over the dish for a fresh, bright finish.
- Serve: Serve the cheesy leeks and beans hot, accompanied by crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the flavorful sauce. Enjoy your comforting winter meal!
Notes
- Use a mild vegetable stock to complement the subtle flavors of the leeks and herbs.
- You can substitute pecorino with Parmesan if vegetarian pecorino is not available, but bear in mind Parmesan contains animal rennet.
- For a vegan version, replace butter with olive oil, and choose vegan cheese alternatives.
- To enhance the texture, gently mash some of the beans during cooking for a creamier consistency.
- Serve with crusty sourdough or baguette to balance the creamy beans.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian