Already consumed in ancient Egypt
Leeks have been eaten for thousands of years since it is included in the oldest recipe that has come down to us, a Mesopotamian recipe, appreciated by the Egyptians, mentioned in the Bible, it is recommended by Hyppocrates the Greek doctor.
– Marble bust of Nero, circa 55-59, National Archaeological Museum of Cagliari
The Roman emperor Nero consumes a lot of it because imagining himself a singer rather than an emperor, he thinks it improves his voice. He eats so many of them that he is nicknamed the porrophagus. That said, in the Middle Ages, Hidegarde von Bingen accused it of diminishing sexual vigor. Do not panic gentlemen, it is not certain that Hildegarde is very qualified to talk about it since she was a nun.
Health side
Fairly easy to grow, it is not expensive, earning it the nickname of the poor man’s asparagus. Rich in water, therefore dioretic, source of fiber and B vitamins, and it is full of antioxidants which you will find more numerous on your plate if you cook it steam rather than in water.
Anyway, as Rosa Lewis said “you have to put your heart into the kitchen”. You can add leek too!