Preheat the oven to 180°C. Remove the green part of the leeks (keep aside for use in stocks and soups). Chop the rest of the leeks into 1.5cm rounds. Heat the oil and butter in a heavy based pan ...

There are so many foods associated with Irish culture, from corned beef and cabbage to Guinness-braised beef and whiskey ... some bacon lardons and wilt some leeks and spinach.

Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Swirl in 6 tablespoons olive oil. Once hot, add leeks and shallots. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until soft but not colored, about 7 minutes.