Leeks and onions are among the oldest known foods on Earth; onions have been around for at least 7,000 years and leeks for at least 4,000 years, when they were already cultivated in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Take a look at ancient Egyptian art: the leeks abound. Leeks were introduced in Iberia by the Jews, who doubtless took a seed or two with them in the Exodus, and today leeks remain a fundamental ingredient not only of Sephardic cuisine in general but of Spanish cuisine of the Mediterranean coast. When figuring out what to serve up to celebrate the new Festival of Lights, what, 2,000 years ago, it would have been a no-brainer. The ancient, Egypitian leek to symbolize yet another oppressor overcome? Maybe. More likely this: Have you tasted fried leeks? They’re delicious!
