Wash 3 whole leek leaves and arrange them in a star pattern. Lay the herbs (and garlic if desired) in a neat stack, one on top of the other, in the center of the star.

Fold in the ends of the leek leaves in the center, until entire bundle of herbs is enclosed. Tie tightly with kitchen string, firmly securing with a knot. If leek leaves are too strong a flavor for the dish you are adding the bouquet to, encase the herbs in a piece of cheesecloth instead (then tie with the string). If you are not adding garlic cloves to the bouquet, just tie all the stems together.

Place bouquet in; soups, stews, casseroles, sauces, braising liquids, or stocks for added flavour, discarding before serving.