Instructions: For sauce: melt butter in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add leeks, sugar and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until liquid evaporates and leeks begin to soften, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes; do not brown. Transfer all but 1 cup leek mixture to bowl and reserve for garnish. Stir remaining leeks, reduce heat to low and cover.

Cook until leeks are very soft and lightly caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes.

Puree caramelized leeks and stock in blender until smooth. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover reserved leeks and sauce separately and refrigerate.)

For veal: Preheat broiler. Season veal with thyme and pepper. Melt 3 tablespoons butter in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add veal and cook until just pink inside, about 4 minutes per side. Transfer to plate and cover to keep warm. Add brandy to skillet and cook until liquid is almost evaporated, scraping up any browned bits. Add cream and leek sauce and bring to simmer. Whisk in 6 tablespoons butter 1 piece at a time.

Add cheese and any accumulated meat juices and whisk until smooth. Season

with salt and pepper. Divide sauce among broilerproof plates. Top with veal and sprinkle reserved leeks over. Broil until leeks are heated through, about 1 minute.

Serves 8.

NOTES : In this elegant entree, the leeks mellow to lend a bit of sweetness to the sauce.

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