Baked mincemeat

Oven Dish: A Healthy and Tasty Delight

When it comes to recipes that combine taste, health, and simplicity, the oven dish holds a top spot in the hearts of many of us. This is a comforting meal, perfect for a family dinner, oil-free and made with fresh ingredients, making it ideal for those who desire a healthy lifestyle. Let's explore this delicious recipe together, step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 3 chicken thighs
- 4-5 medium potatoes
- 1 large onion
- 3-4 cloves of garlic
- 1 carrot
- 2 tomatoes
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon of instant soup (chicken or vegetable)
- 1 tablespoon of dill seeds
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste

Preparing the Dish:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the vegetables. Cut the potatoes into medium-sized cubes, the carrot into thin rounds, and the onion into thin slices or cubes. The tomatoes can be cut into cubes or slices, depending on preference. The garlic can be sliced thinly or crushed, depending on how strong you want the garlic flavor to be.

2. Preparing the chicken thighs: It's time to give the chicken thighs a bit more flavor. Use a sharp knife to insert the garlic slices into the thighs. This step will ensure the flavors infuse into the meat during baking.

3. Assembling the dish: In a large baking tray, arrange all the chopped vegetables. You can start with the potatoes, followed by the carrot, onion, and tomatoes. Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables.

4. Preparing the sauce: In a small bowl, mix the tomato paste with instant soup, salt, pepper, and dill seeds. This sauce will add a touch of flavor and keep the vegetables and meat moist during baking. Pour the sauce evenly over the thighs and vegetables, ensuring all ingredients are well covered.

5. Baking: Cover the tray with aluminum foil, making sure it is well sealed to retain moisture. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the dish for 1 hour and 30 minutes. This time will allow the vegetables to cook slowly, and the meat to become tender and juicy.

6. Finishing the dish: After the baking time is up, remove the foil and activate the grill function of the oven. Let the dish brown for 10 minutes until the thighs develop a golden and appetizing crust.

7. Serving: Once the dish is ready, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for an added touch of freshness.

Serving Suggestions:

The oven dish is delicious served with a fresh green salad or a vegetable salad, which will add a crunchy contrast. Additionally, a serving of basmati rice or quinoa would perfectly complement this healthy meal.

Nutritional Benefits:

This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritionally balanced. Chicken thighs provide essential proteins, while fresh vegetables offer a variety of vitamins and minerals. Potatoes are a good source of carbohydrates, and dill not only adds flavor but also has antioxidant properties.

Tips and Variations:

- Vegetable variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant, depending on the season and preferences.
- Spices: Add spices such as sweet or hot paprika, oregano, or thyme to diversify the flavors.
- Meat: If you want to replace chicken, this recipe can also adapt to pork or beef, ensuring to adjust the baking time according to the type of meat used.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use frozen vegetables?: Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient option, but make sure to let them thaw before adding them to the tray.
- How can I store the dish for the next day?: You can store it in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave to regain juiciness.

In conclusion, the oven dish is a simple yet extremely satisfying recipe that brings the natural flavors of the ingredients to the forefront. It is the perfect choice for a quick and healthy dinner that will be appreciated by the whole family. So, embrace this recipe and enjoy every bite!