Vegetables with meat

Vegetables with Meat: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, I will share with you a tasty and comforting recipe for vegetables with meat that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor, making it perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.

A Bit of History

Recipes with vegetables and meat have deep roots in culinary tradition, being beloved dishes throughout time. This is not just a meal, but a combination of fresh ingredients that complement each other perfectly, offering a taste that reminds us of family gatherings, the comfort of home, and memorable moments spent with loved ones.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

- 5 medium onions
- 4 bell peppers (preferably in different colors for a vibrant look)
- 2 large tomatoes
- 1 large chicken breast (approximately 400-500g)
- 200 ml tomato juice (or puree)
- 100 ml white wine (preferably dry, to add depth)
- Oil for sautéing (olive oil is an excellent choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Water (approximately 200-300 ml, depending on preference)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables and meat under cold running water. This step is essential to remove impurities and pesticides. Cut the onion in half, then into thin slices. Slice the peppers lengthwise into thin strips, and cut the chicken breast into strips about 1-2 cm wide, ensuring they are the same length as the peppers.

2. Grating the Tomatoes: Use a large grater to turn the tomatoes into pulp. If you want to save time, you can use canned tomatoes or tomato juice, but nothing compares to the flavor of fresh tomatoes.

3. Heating the Oil: In a large pot, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough to brown the meat, but not so hot that it burns.

4. Browning the Meat: Add the strips of chicken breast and let them brown evenly on all sides. This step is crucial, as browning helps develop flavors.

5. Adding the Vegetables: Once the meat is browned, add the onion and pepper. Mix well and let them sauté together for 5-7 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent.

6. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. This is also where you can add other preferred spices, such as sweet paprika or herbs like basil or oregano.

7. Adding Water: Pour in enough water to cover the mixture. Put a lid on the pot and reduce the heat to low. This step will help slow-cook the ingredients, keeping them juicy.

8. Checking the Freshness: Occasionally check to ensure that the liquid doesn’t reduce too much. If necessary, add a little more water. When the water has almost completely reduced, it’s time to continue with the tomatoes and puree.

9. Finishing the Dish: Add the grated tomatoes and tomato juice. Mix well and let everything simmer on low heat for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Then, pour in the white wine and let it evaporate for a few minutes.

10. Tasting and Adjusting: Taste the dish to adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. If you feel it needs it, add more spices or a splash of olive oil for a richer flavor.

Helpful Tips

- Choosing the Meat: This recipe is very versatile. You can use beef, pork, or even boneless chicken thighs, depending on your preferences. Each type of meat will add a unique note to the dish.
- Vegetable Variations: Don’t limit yourself to just peppers and tomatoes. You can also add other vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or eggplant. These will bring a different texture and taste.
- Serving: This dish pairs wonderfully with a serving of rice or mashed potatoes, which will absorb the delicious sauce. Additionally, a fresh salad will perfectly complement the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen vegetables?: Yes, you can use frozen vegetables, but make sure to thaw them before adding them to the dish for even cooking.
- Is this recipe suitable for freezing?: Absolutely! You can freeze the dish once it has completely cooled, and when you need a quick dinner, you can thaw and reheat it.
- How can I enhance the flavor?: Adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill at serving time will intensify the flavor and add a fresh touch.

Nutritional Benefits

This recipe is rich in protein due to the chicken and full of vitamins from the vegetables. Bell peppers and tomatoes are excellent sources of antioxidants, contributing to a healthy immune system. Additionally, the dish is relatively low in calories, making it a perfect choice for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

I encourage you to experiment with this recipe and adapt it according to your preferences. Every dish has its story, and the food we cook brings together not just ingredients, but also memories and beautiful moments. I hope you enjoy this recipe for vegetables with meat as much as I enjoy preparing it. Bon appétit!