Vegetable puree with meat

Vegetable puree with thighs - a healthy and tasty delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Welcome to my kitchen! Today I invite you to discover the recipe for a vegetable puree with thighs, a delicious and healthy choice, perfect for a family lunch or dinner. This dish is not only a great way to use leftover vegetables from a soup but also an opportunity to add colors and flavors to your plate.

The history of vegetable puree goes back in time, being a versatile dish found in numerous culinary cultures. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, vegetable puree offers a rich mix of nutrients and a comforting taste.

Let's get started! There will be a few simple but essential steps to achieve a smooth and creamy puree.

Ingredients:
- 4 large carrots
- 1 large celery
- 2 bell peppers (preferably red or yellow for vibrant color)
- 3 medium potatoes
- A handful of peas (fresh or frozen)
- 3 florets of cauliflower
- 4 fresh tomatoes (in season for an intense flavor)
- 1 medium onion
- 2-3 garlic cloves
- A cube of butter (about 30g)
- A handful of parsley and dill (for added freshness)
- Salt, pepper, and nutmeg (to taste)
- Olive oil or another vegetable oil (for sautéing)

Recipe Steps:

1. Preparing the vegetables: Wash all the vegetables well. Peel the carrots, celery, potatoes, and garlic. Chop the onion finely and cut the vegetables into large cubes for even cooking.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and starts to release its aromas.

3. Adding the cooked vegetables: If you have previously boiled the vegetables for soup, now is the perfect time to use them. Add all the cooked vegetables to the skillet along with a little broth (about 100-200ml). If you don't have broth, you can use water.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. Let the mixture come to a boil for 5-7 minutes so that all the flavors combine perfectly.

5. Adding the tomatoes: Peel the tomatoes (if you prefer, you can blanch them to remove the skin more easily) and chop them into cubes. Add the tomatoes to the skillet and let them cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes until they soften and the sauce reduces. This is an important step, as the tomatoes will add a pleasant acidity to the puree.

6. Including the garlic: 2-3 minutes before turning off the heat, add the crushed garlic cloves to release their aroma into the puree. Taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary.

7. Making the puree: Add the butter cube to the mixture and stir well until it melts. Use an immersion blender to mix everything until you achieve a smooth puree. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave some larger vegetable pieces.

8. Adding the greens: Once the puree is ready, add the finely chopped parsley and dill. This will bring a fresh and vibrant note to the dish.

9. Final tasting: Taste the puree once more, and if you find it too sweet, you can add a few drops of lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Serving: This vegetable puree pairs perfectly with roasted thighs or other lovingly prepared meat dishes. A salad of fresh radishes or a green salad with lemon dressing will ideally complete the meal.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, broccoli, or spinach, to add various flavors and shades of color.
- If you want a creamier puree, you can add sour cream or milk, but make sure to adjust the salt accordingly.
- This puree can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can be easily reheated, making it an excellent choice for pre-prepared meals.

Nutritional benefits: Vegetable puree is rich in vitamins and minerals. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, while celery and cauliflower are high in fiber and antioxidants. This recipe is ideal for a balanced diet and can help maintain a healthy weight.

Calories: A serving of vegetable puree has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of butter and oil used, making it a healthy and filling dish.

So, what are you waiting for? Put on your apron and let’s prepare this vegetable puree with thighs together! Enjoy your meal!