Turkish-style Green Beans with Leeks and Carrots

Ingredients

 * 4	med	Leeks
 * 2	tbl	Olive oil
 * 1	med	Onion, cut into 1/2-in. thick semicircles
 * 3	med	Carrots, 1/4" slices
 * 1/2	cup	Water
 * 1 1/2	tbl	Lemon juice
 * 2	tbl	Finely chopped fresh parsley
 * 1/4	tsp	Sugar
 * 1/8	tsp	Salt
 * 10	oz	Package frozen Italian green beans, slightly thawed

Directions

 * 1) To clean the leeks, cut off and discard the roots and all but 1 to 2 inches of the green tops. Slit the top of each in half lengthwise down to the point where the green part meets the white. Gently spread the leaves open and rinse the leeks very well under cool running water to remove any grit.
 * 2) Drain them well. Slice the cleaned leeks crosswise into 1/2-in. long pieces and set them aside. In a medium-sized saucepan, over medium-high heat, heat the oil. Add the onion and cook, breaking up the slices. When the onion is tender but not browned, add the reserved leeks and cook, stirring often, about 5 minutes longer. Then add all the remaining ingredients, except the green beans, and stir gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil; then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Gently stir in the green beans; then simmer, covered, for 10 minutes longer, or until all the vegetables are tender. Serve warm. Or, to serve in the Turkish manner, chill completely (several hours or overnight), and serve chilled or at room temperature.