Buttered Leeks

Ingredients

2 large leeks

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Method

1. Trim off and discard the root ends of the leeks. Trim off and discard any dried out or browned ends of the leek greens. Cut the leeks in half lengthwise, slice them crosswise into bite-sized pieces. You can use the dark green parts of the leek; chop it all up, just getting rid of any browned or dried ends.
2. Put the leeks in a large bowl and cover with cool water. Swish the leeks around to loosen any dirt or grit. 
3. In a large frying pan or sauté pan over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of the butter.
4. Lift the leeks out of the water, shaking any excess, and add them to the pan. Do not drain the leeks into a colander, since that will dump the dirt back onto the leeks. Sprinkle the leeks with salt and stir to combine.
5. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook, stirring every 5 minutes or so until the leeks are very tender, 30 to 40 minutes total.
6. Take the pan off the heat and add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Stir until the butter is melted into the leeks. Serve hot or warm.