Leek Legend and Lore
There is a lot of lore from many different cultures surrounding the leek. In 640 A.D., the Welsh wore leeks in their hats to distinguish themselves from the enemy during the battle between King Cadwallader of Wales and the Saxons.The leek became an emblem of pride in Wales, and Welshmen wear the leek to commemorate King Cadwallader's victory on St. David's Day, March 1st. Leek broth or cawl is the traditional meal for this day.
The leek in Hebrew is called karti, which is a pun on another Hebrew word yikartu, meaning "to be cut off." Thus, the Jews eat leeks at Rosh Hashanah to symbolize a wish for enemies to be cut off.
Nero ate leeks with oil regularly, thinking they were good for his singing voice. Perhaps Nero got the notion from Aristotle who claimed the clear cry of the partridge was due to its diet of leeks.
More about Leeks:
• Leek Cooking Tips and Hints• How to Clean Leeks
• Leek Selection and Storage
• Leek Substitutions, Measures, & Equivalents
• Leek History
• Leek Lore and Legends
• Leek Health Benefits
• Leek Recipes
Leek Photo © 2007 Peggy Trowbridge Filippone, licensed to About.com, Inc.
Cookbooks
| • | Onion: The Essential Cook's Guide to Onions |
| • | Essential Onions |
| • | The Onion Lover's Cookbook |
| • | Brian Glover's Know Your Onions |
| • | More Cookbooks |
