Know your Kurrat
Know your Kurrat - Introduction
Kurrat, or Egyptian leek (Arabic: كراث) (Allium ampeloprasum var. kurrat), is grown in the Middle East for its leaves.
It is closely related to elephant garlic and leeks and is generally regarded as being in the same species, though it is also commonly listed as Allium kurrat.
Know your Kurrat - Origins
The Egyptian Leek has been cultivated in Egypt for at least 2,500 years, this species is closely related to the leek, A. ampeloprasum var. porrum, and has similar uses.
Grown predominantly in the Middle east, but none are known growing in a truly wild situation, showing the length of time this variety has been cultivated.
Know your Kurrat - Botany
The Egyptian leek is perennial, growing to 1m (3 ft).
It is hardy to zone 0.
The flowers are hermaphrodite (have both male and female organs) and are pollinated by bees, and other insects.
Know your Kurrat - Kitchen Notes
Edible parts are the the flowers, leaves and the root.
The root bulb is eaten raw or cooked.
The leaves are eaten raw or used as a flavouring in cooked dishes.
The whole plant can be cooked and used like leeks (A. ampeloprasum var. porrum).
The flowers are eaten raw, normally used as a garnish on salads.
Know your Kurrat - Nutrition
Although no specific mention of medicinal uses has been seen for this species, members of this genus are in general very healthy additions to the diet.
They contain sulphur compounds (which give them their onion flavour) and when added to the diet on a regular basis they help reduce blood cholesterol levels, act as a tonic to the digestive system and also tonify the circulatory system[K].
Know your Kurrat - Uses
The juice of the plant is used as a moth repellent. The whole plant is said to repel insects and moles.
Members of this genus are rarely if ever troubled by browsing deer.