Leeks are a type of vegetable that belong to the Allium family, which also includes onions and garlic. They have a bulbous white base that transitions to light green and then to dark green at the top. Leeks have a sweet and mild flavor that is delicious in soups, stews, and other dishes
. They are larger than scallions and green onions, and are firmer in texture. Leeks are typically used for cooking, and can be sliced thinly for use in salads
. In the United States, leeks are simply called leeks