Vegetable concentrate

In search of a natural and healthy taste in your dishes, today I present you an enticing recipe for creating vegetable cubes, a delicious and healthy alternative to popular commercial bouillon. These cubes are 100% natural, with no additives or preservatives, and are meant to enrich any dish with fresh flavors.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 cubes

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 parsley root + leaves
- 1 small celery root + leaves
- 1 bell pepper (any color)
- 1 sweet pepper (or kapia pepper)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or other vegetable oil)
- 1 cup of water
- Optional: other vegetables like cabbage, kohlrabi, or cauliflower to diversify the flavor

Preparation of vegetable cubes:

1. Washing and preparing the vegetables: Start by washing the vegetables thoroughly under running water. It is important to remove any impurities or pesticides, especially if you choose store-bought vegetables. Peel the carrots, parsley, and celery.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Use a meat grinder or food processor to chop all the vegetables into small pieces. This step is important because the cubes will have a more intense flavor if the vegetables are finely chopped.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a deep pan, add the two tablespoons of oil and heat them over medium heat. Add the chopped vegetables and sauté for 2-3 minutes. There is no need to cook them too much, just enough to soften them slightly to release their flavors.

4. Boiling the vegetables: Add the cup of water and let the mixture boil for 5 minutes. The water will help the vegetables combine and reveal their natural taste.

5. Filling the cubes: Prepare ice cube trays or egg holders, greasing them with a little oil to prevent sticking. Fill each compartment with the vegetable mixture, being careful not to overfill.

6. Freezing: Place the trays in the freezer and leave them there for 2-3 hours, until the cubes are completely frozen.

7. Storing: Once the cubes are ready, remove them from the trays and store them in freezer bags. Label the bag with the date and contents for easy identification later.

Serving suggestions and variations:
These vegetable cubes can be used in soups, stews, sauces, or even in risotto to add a deep and natural flavor. You can experiment with different combinations of vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For example, cabbage, kohlrabi, and cauliflower can be added for an extra burst of flavor. Try adding herbs like thyme or basil for an even more complex taste.

Nutritional benefits:
These vegetable cubes are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, contributing to a healthy diet. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, while parsley and celery are known for their antioxidant properties. Olive oil adds healthy fatty acids, essential for a balanced diet.

Calories:
Approximately, one vegetable cube has about 15-20 calories, depending on the chosen ingredients.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, but the taste will be slightly different. It is recommended to use fresh vegetables for the best flavors.
- How long can I keep the vegetable cubes in the freezer? It is recommended to consume them within 3-6 months to benefit from their optimal flavor and nutrients.
- Can I add spices? You can add spices such as salt, pepper, or herbs to the vegetable mixture before freezing, but be careful not to overdo it.

Try this simple and quick recipe and enjoy the natural flavor of vegetables in every meal. I encourage you to experiment and find your favorite combinations. Whether you use it in soups or stews, these cubes will become a staple in your kitchen, providing a taste full of naturalness and health!