Vegetable broth

Vegetable Broth – A Marvel at Home

Vegetable broth is an indispensable ingredient in the kitchen that can transform even the simplest dishes into true delights. This vegetable broth recipe is not only healthy but also extremely easy to prepare, offering an authentic and natural taste, far from the commercial version filled with preservatives. Let’s start our culinary journey!

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 1 hour
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 2 hours
- Number of servings: Approximately 10-12 jars of 300-500 ml

Ingredients:
- 2 kg bell peppers
- 2 kg sweet peppers (green, red, orange)
- 3/4 kg carrots
- 3 kg tomatoes
- 6 large parsley roots
- 1 kg leek
- 6 red onions
- 2 celery
- 2 parsnips
- 6 large zucchinis
- 1/2 kg water (optional, to help with blending)
- 3 bay leaves
- 150 g salt
- 100 g sugar
- 1 tablespoon marjoram
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon white pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon crushed sage
- A large pot of 12-15 kg (large enough to boil the entire mixture)
- A powerful blender

Step by Step Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables
Start by washing and peeling the vegetables. It is essential to choose fresh, quality vegetables to obtain a tasty and aromatic broth. Chopping the vegetables may seem like a daunting task, but don’t be discouraged! I recommend chopping them finely to facilitate the blending process. If you have a powerful blender, preparation will be much easier.

Step 2: Blending the Vegetables
Once the vegetables are chopped, place them in the blender one at a time. You may need a little water to assist with blending, especially for the root vegetables. Aim for a smooth paste to ensure that all flavors will blend perfectly in the broth.

Step 3: Boiling the Broth
Pour the vegetable mixture into a large pot over medium heat. Here, you’ll want to be careful, as the broth tends to overflow when it begins to boil due to the foam. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. After about an hour, you’ll notice that the foam will diminish, and the broth will take on a thicker consistency.

Step 4: Seasoning
Halfway through boiling, add the salt and sugar, and towards the end, the spices: bay leaves, marjoram, sweet paprika, white pepper, garlic powder, and sage. These will add an extra layer of flavor to your broth.

Step 5: Sterilizing the Jars
While the broth is boiling, it’s important to sterilize the jars in which you will store the broth. Wash them thoroughly with hot water and detergent, then scald them with boiling water. This is a safety measure to prevent bacterial growth.

Step 6: Bottling
Once the broth is ready, let it cool for about 30 minutes. Use a ladle and a funnel to pour the broth into the sterilized jars, being careful not to leave air inside. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool.

Practical Tips:
- For an even more intense flavor, you can add fresh herbs like parsley or basil in the last minutes of cooking.
- Vegetable variations: You can experiment with seasonal vegetables like eggplant or pumpkin for a different taste.
- Low sodium: If you are on a low-sodium diet, you can reduce or even eliminate the salt from the recipe, adding additional spices for flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:
Vegetable broth is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. The vegetables used are rich in antioxidants and fiber, promoting healthy digestion and immune system function. Consuming vegetable broth can be especially beneficial for those looking to improve their vegetable intake in their diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, but it is recommended to use fresh vegetables for a more intense flavor.
- How long can the broth be stored?
If stored correctly in sterilized jars, the broth can last up to a year in the pantry.
- How can I use the broth?
It is perfect for enhancing soups, sauces, cooked dishes, or even as a base for risotto.

Serving and Pairing
Vegetable broth is extremely versatile. It can be used as a base for delicious soups or as a secret ingredient in sauces and cooked dishes. I recommend using it to prepare a lentil soup or a creamy mushroom risotto. Additionally, a glass of dry white wine pairs wonderfully with dishes cooked with your broth.

Personal Note
This vegetable broth recipe is not just a way to enhance the flavor of your dishes but also an opportunity to reconnect with nature and fresh ingredients. The experience of making broth at home is fulfilling and will bring you a sense of accomplishment. I hope you enjoy this recipe and share it with your loved ones!