Vegetable stew

Vegetable casserole - A recipe full of flavor and color

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Welcome to our kitchen! Today we present a delicious and healthy vegetable casserole recipe, a versatile and flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion. This casserole recipe is an excellent way to consume seasonal vegetables, bringing a splash of color and taste to your table. Whether you want a vegetarian dish or plan to combine it with meat, this casserole is the ideal choice!

A brief history

Over time, vegetable casserole has been appreciated as a comforting dish that brings together various vegetables, all slowly cooked to retain their flavors and nutrients. It is a perfect example of "seasonal" food that adapts based on available ingredients. This recipe can be customized according to personal preferences, and each cook can add a personal touch.

Ingredients

- 1 medium eggplant
- 2-3 bell peppers (red and yellow)
- 1 large onion
- 2-3 medium potatoes
- 1/2 white cabbage
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes
- 1 cup of peas (about 200g)
- 1 large carrot
- 100 g tomato paste
- 2-3 sheets of malauh (or dough made from water, flour, and a little oil)
- Olive oil (as needed)
- Salt, pepper, garlic (to taste)

Ingredient details

- Vegetables: Choose fresh and seasonal vegetables for the best flavors. If you wish, you can also add other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or mushrooms.
- Olive oil: Recommended for a more intense flavor, but you can also use other types of oil, like sunflower oil, if you prefer.
- Tomato paste: This adds a note of acidity and richness to the dish. Make sure it is of high quality for the best results.
- Malauh sheets: If you don't have them, you can use puff pastry or even a pizza crust.

Preparation techniques

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling all the vegetables. Cut the eggplant, peppers, onion, potatoes, and carrot into thin slices or cubes. The cabbage should be cut into thin strips, and the tomatoes can be quartered. If you have a food processor, it can work wonders for cutting vegetables evenly and quickly.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly transparent. Then, add the remaining vegetables (eggplant, peppers, potatoes, cabbage) and sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to cook evenly. This step helps the vegetables release their flavors and become tender.

3. Preparing for the oven: After the vegetables have sautéed, transfer them to a baking dish or a Pyrex dish. Pour two tablespoons of olive oil and the tomato paste on top, mixing well to combine all the ingredients. Add salt, pepper, and garlic (to taste). Cover the dish with malauh sheets or the dough you prepared.

4. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for about 60 minutes. The vegetables will become soft, and the flavors will intensify.

5. Finishing: After an hour, remove the dough and leave the dish in the oven for another 5-10 minutes to brown slightly. This step will add a crispy texture to the dish.

Serving and variations

The vegetable casserole can be served hot or cold, making it a perfect side dish for meat or fish. You can also add pieces of poultry or fish during baking to give them a unique flavor. Try pairing it with a fresh salad or homemade mayonnaise for a pleasant contrast.

Useful tips

- For extra flavor: Add herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary.
- Vegan version: Ensure all ingredients are vegan and exclude any animal products.
- For those who prefer a spicy taste: You can add hot peppers or chili flakes.

Nutritional benefits

This casserole is packed with nutrients, providing a rich source of vitamins and minerals. The vegetables used are low in calories but high in fiber, making them ideal for a healthy diet. Additionally, olive oil brings healthy fatty acids that contribute to heart health.

Frequently asked questions

- What can I do with leftovers? You can use leftover casserole as a filling for an omelet or add it to soups.

- What type of meat pairs best? Chicken and white fish are excellent choices, but pork can also be an interesting option.

- Can I freeze the casserole? Yes, the casserole can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy the best flavors.

In conclusion

The vegetable casserole is a simple yet extremely versatile recipe that can be adapted to everyone's tastes. Whether you prepare it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, we are sure it will become a favorite. Feel free to experiment with the ingredients and add your own twists! Enjoy!