Vegetables for soup

Recipe for Vegetable Mix for Soups and Stews

The vegetable mix for soups and stews is an essential ingredient in our cuisine, bringing flavor and aroma to dishes. This traditional recipe will provide you with a delicious blend of vegetables that will transform any soup or stew into an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you're using it to add a rich and complex taste or simply to save time in the kitchen, the vegetable mix is a wise choice.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 25 jars (depends on quantity)

Necessary ingredients:
- 10 kg ripe, juicy tomatoes
- 3 kg bell peppers or sweet peppers (you can also use hot peppers for an extra kick)
- 2 kg sweet carrots
- 1 kg celery (you can substitute with parsnip or root parsley, depending on your taste)
- Salt, to taste (remember, salt is essential for preservation)
- Optional: fresh parsley or celery leaves for a fresher taste

To achieve an ideal vegetable mix, it's important to choose quality ingredients. The vegetables should be fresh, without blemishes or imperfections. The tomatoes should be ripe, and the peppers should have a vibrant color. Some vegetables may be sweeter than others, so adjust the salt and other ingredients to your taste.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables thoroughly under cold water. This is a crucial step to remove any impurities or pesticides. Peel the carrots, celery, and peppers, removing the seeds and stems.

2. Chopping the vegetables: Use a meat grinder to chop all the vegetables. This will not only speed up the process but also ensure a uniform texture. If you don’t have a grinder, you can use a blender or food processor, but be careful not to over-blend to avoid a puree.

3. Cooking the mixture: Place the resulting mixture in a large pot or cauldron over medium heat. Let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice that the carrots and other vegetables will soften, and the aroma will fill your kitchen.

4. Adding salt: Once the vegetables have cooked and started to break down, add salt to taste. Be careful not to overdo it, as salt acts as a preservative. Taste the mixture and adjust as needed.

5. Adding greens: If you want a fresher taste, you can add finely chopped parsley or celery leaves at this stage. These will add a note of freshness to the vegetable mix.

6. Preserving: Once the mixture is ready, pour the vegetable mix into sterilized bottles or jars. It is essential that the jars are well sterilized to prevent bacteria growth. Sterilize the jars by boiling them in water for 30 minutes.

7. Cooling and storing: Allow the jars to cool completely, then label them and store them in a cool, dark place. The vegetable mix can be kept for up to 2 years, but remember to check its condition periodically.

Nutritional benefits:
The vegetable mix is rich in vitamins and minerals, being an excellent source of vitamin C, beta-carotene, and fiber. It helps strengthen the immune system and contributes to healthy digestion. It is low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other vegetables?
Yes, you can add vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I use the vegetable mix?
It is perfect for soups, stews, sauces, or even for quick dishes like a vegetable omelet.

3. How often should I stir the mixture while cooking?
Stir occasionally to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. Can I make the vegetable mix without salt?
Salt is essential for preservation, but you can reduce the amount if you prefer a less salty dish.

Serving suggestions:
The vegetable mix can be used as a base for a delicious vegetable soup, which you can enhance with meat or additional vegetables, depending on your preferences. You can also add pasta or rice to turn the soup into a hearty meal.

Variations:
For a different flavor, you can experiment with spices like paprika, thyme, or basil, adding them during the cooking process.

Personal stories:
I will share a cherished memory – when I was a child, I helped my grandmother prepare the vegetable mix. I loved watching her transform fresh vegetables into a fragrant blend, ready to be used in the most delicious soups. This recipe is not just a simple mix of vegetables; it also represents a connection to traditions and beautiful childhood memories.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to put on your apron and get cooking! The vegetable mix for soups and stews will add a touch of flavor to any dish. Don't forget to enjoy the process and experiment with flavors! Bon appétit!