Leek dish with soy

Leek and Soy Dish – A Delicious and Healthy Recipe for Fasting Days

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

The leek and soy dish is a versatile recipe, full of flavors and health benefits, perfect for fasting days or for those who want to reduce meat consumption. This delicious combination is not only easy to prepare but also adds a touch of freshness to your table.

Necessary ingredients:

- 3 leeks
- 1 medium onion
- 4-5 garlic cloves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable seasoning (or salt, to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper
- Dried thyme (or fresh, if available)
- 3-4 tablespoons tomato paste
- A bunch of fresh dill
- A bag of soy (chunks or granules)

Step by step:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the leeks well to remove any impurities. Cut them into rounds about 1 cm thick. Finely chop the onion and crush or finely chop the garlic. This initial preparation will ensure that all the flavors blend perfectly in the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the leeks and onion
In a large skillet, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the leeks and chopped onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adding a glass of water will help cook the vegetables without frying them, preserving their freshness and texture.

Step 3: Preparing the soy
Separately, in another pot, add water and a tablespoon of vegetable seasoning. Bring the water to a boil, then add the soy chunks. Boil the soy for about 10 minutes, then drain it well. This step is essential to remove excess salt and allow the soy to absorb the flavors from the dish.

Step 4: Combining the ingredients
Add the cooked soy to the leeks and onion in the skillet. Pour in another glass of water and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the dish simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes. This time will allow the soy to soak up the flavors of the leeks and onion.

Step 5: Adding the spices
After the dish has simmered, add the tomato paste, finely chopped garlic, and spices – pepper, thyme, and, if desired, a little extra salt. Mix all the ingredients well and let them simmer together for another 5 minutes. Here you can experiment with spices, adding chopped chili or your favorite herbs.

Step 6: Finalizing the dish
Once all the ingredients are well combined and the dish has become homogeneous, add the finely chopped dill. This will bring a fresh and aromatic note to your dish. Mix again and let it sit on the heat for another 2-3 minutes.

Serving and suggestions
The leek and soy dish can be served warm, alongside a portion of rice or quinoa, which will perfectly complement the dish and provide extra nutrients. You can also serve it with a fresh salad for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Tips and variations
If you want to enrich the recipe, you can add grated carrots or red bell pepper, which will bring a splash of color and sweetness. Additionally, adding toasted nuts or seeds at the end can provide an extra crunch. The dish keeps well in the refrigerator and can be consumed the next day, offering a quick and delicious meal.

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is rich in fiber due to the leeks and soy, which are excellent for digestion. Additionally, soy is a good source of plant-based protein, ideal for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. Dill adds not only flavor but also antioxidants, contributing to overall health.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use soy granules instead of chunks?
Yes, soy granules can be used, but the cooking time will be different. Make sure to follow the instructions on the package.

2. How can I make the recipe spicier?
Add chopped chili or chili flakes during cooking to achieve the desired kick.

3. Can the leek and soy dish be frozen?
Yes, this dish can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to preserve the texture of the vegetables.

The leek and soy dish is not only a delicious preparation but also a healthy choice, perfect for bringing a touch of joy to your table. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy this simple and flavorful recipe!