Fried, then braised leeks

Ingredients for 4 servings:

• 2 stalk(s) leeks (medium sized stalks)
• some butter
• 400 ml chicken broth
• Salt
• e.g. butter
• 2 slice(s) ham, cooked, each 5 mm thick
• ½ cup(s) Parmesan cheese, preferably freshly grated

Instructions

Working time approx. 25 minutes; Total time approx. 25 minutes

If you like leeks, you will love it

Trim, wash, and halve the leeks. Dice the ham slices. Fry the leeks, cut-side down, in a little butter in a large pan until lightly browned. Add the chicken stock and a little salt (do not add salt if using instant chicken stock!). Simmer gently for about 10 minutes, until the leeks are cooked and the stock has reduced by about half. Transfer the leeks to a buttered casserole or gratin dish. Pour over the reduced stock, sprinkle with ham cubes and Parmesan cheese, and top with knobs of butter. Briefly roast under the preheated broiler until the ham is crispy and the cheese is melted. Serve immediately. Serve with bread for a light lunch or dinner, or as a side dish to other dishes.