Vegetable mix with sauce

Delicious Vegetable Mix with Sauce Recipe: A Savory Side Dish for Any Meal

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Today we will indulge in a simple and healthy recipe, perfect for a side dish that will add a touch of flavor to any meal. The vegetable mix with sauce is not only delicious but also versatile, as it can be served alongside any main course. Plus, it is an excellent choice for those looking to diversify their diet with fresh or frozen vegetables.

A bit of history

This type of recipe, with boiled vegetables and a creamy sauce, has deep roots in traditional cuisines around the world. Vegetables have always been a staple ingredient, and cooking them in salted water has been a technique used for centuries to preserve not only the texture but also essential nutrients. Sauces have helped transform simple dishes into truly memorable meals, adding extra flavor and richness.

Necessary ingredients

- 400 g frozen vegetable mix (carrots, peas, corn, green beans)
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1-2 tablespoons flour
- 200 ml broth (from the water in which the vegetables were boiled)
- 1 teaspoon ammonium bicarbonate

Ingredient details

- Frozen vegetable mix: Choose a mix that contains colorful vegetables to add an appealing look to your dish. Frozen vegetables retain nutrients and are a convenient choice, saving time in meal preparation.
- Garlic: It is a wonderful ingredient, not only for its distinctive aroma but also for its health benefits. You can also use fresh crushed garlic for a more intense flavor.
- Thyme: This is an aromatic herb that pairs perfectly with vegetables. You can also experiment with other herbs like oregano or basil if you want a different flavor.
- Ammonium bicarbonate: This is a less common ingredient, but you will use it to help the sauce become creamier. Make sure to dissolve it well to avoid lumps.

Preparation technique

1. Boiling the vegetables: In a large pot, add water and a pinch of salt. Put the frozen vegetables to boil. Let them cook for 8-10 minutes until tender but not completely soft. This step is essential to maintain the crunchy texture of the vegetables.

2. Preparing the sauce: In a separate pan, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until it turns slightly golden. This will help the sauce be creamy and not have a raw flour taste.

3. Adding the broth: When the flour is well toasted, gradually add the broth obtained from the water in which the vegetables were boiled. Continue stirring to avoid lumps. Let the sauce boil until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Garlic and bicarbonate: Crush the garlic cloves and add them to the hot sauce. Mix well and then add the ammonium bicarbonate. Continue stirring for 2 minutes until the bicarbonate is completely dissolved. This step will add some airiness to the sauce.

5. Finishing the dish: Once the sauce has thickened, pour it over the boiled vegetables. Mix well to coat all the vegetables with sauce. Taste and add salt or thyme, as desired.

Serving and suggestions

This vegetable mix with sauce can be served immediately, warm, as a side dish alongside a steak or as a main dish with rice or quinoa. You can also add some roasted sunflower or pumpkin seeds on top for extra crunch.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use fresh vegetables? Yes, of course! If you use fresh vegetables, make sure to cook them for a shorter time to maintain their crunchy texture.
- Is this dish vegan? Absolutely! All ingredients are plant-based, making this dish perfect for vegan diets.
- Can I add other spices? Certainly! You can experiment with spices like paprika, black pepper, or curry to give the sauce a different flavor.

Nutritional values (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 150 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 6 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 5 g

This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent choice for adding more vegetables to your daily diet.

Possible variations

To make this dish even more interesting, you can experiment with:

- Adding cheese: A sprinkle of feta or parmesan cheese on top, before serving, can transform the flavor.
- Including proteins: You can add fried tofu or tempeh to turn the dish into a satisfying main course.
- Flavoring with lemon: A splash of fresh lemon juice at the end can add a note of freshness.

I hope this recipe inspires you to cook and enjoy a healthy and tasty dish. Don't forget to share your culinary experience with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!