Ikra Ovoshchnaia

Ikra Ovoshchnaia Recipe: A Flavorful Russian Vegetarian Dish

Region / culture: Russia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 5 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Ikra Ovoshchnaia, also known as Russian vegetable caviar, is a delicious and flavorful dish made with eggplant, tomatoes, carrots, and a variety of herbs and spices. This vegetarian dish is perfect for serving as a side dish or spread on bread or crackers.

History

Ikra Ovoshchnaia has been a popular dish in Russian cuisine for many years. It is believed to have originated in the 19th century and has since become a staple in Russian households. The name "ikra" means caviar in Russian, referring to the dish's texture and appearance.

Ingredients

1 medium eggplant
1 large carrot
1 large yellow onion
1 celery stick
1 lb (454 g) fresh tomatoes
2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
0.25 cup of chopped parsley
0.25 cup of chopped dill
0.25 cup of chopped cilantro
0.25 tsp of black pepper
0.5 tsp of salt
0.5 tbsp of soy sauce
2 bay leaves
olive oil

How to prepare

Peel, chop, and stew tomatoes for 40 minutes on low heat after bringing to a boil to make a sauce.
Pour boiling hot water over the eggplant, then chop the eggplant into cubes.
Salt the eggplant and put it into a well-oiled frying pan.
Stew on low for 30 minutes and mix frequently.
Add oil if the pan gets too dry.
When the eggplant gets soft and decreases in size, add finely chopped carrot, finely chopped celery, onion, garlic, tomato sauce, black pepper, and bay leaves.
Mix and cook for 20 minutes.
Add dill, cilantro, and parsley.
Cook for another 15 minutes, stirring frequently.

Variations

Add bell peppers or zucchini for additional flavor and texture.
Use different herbs and spices, such as basil or oregano, to customize the dish to your taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stew the tomatoes for at least 40 minutes to create a rich and flavorful sauce.

- Salting the eggplant before cooking helps to remove any bitterness and excess moisture.

- Stir frequently while cooking to ensure all the flavors are well combined.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Ikra Ovoshchnaia can be served as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or poultry. It can also be spread on bread or crackers as a delicious appetizer.

Cooking Techniques

Stewing, sautéing, and simmering are the main cooking techniques used in preparing Ikra Ovoshchnaia.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute the fresh tomatoes with canned tomatoes if fresh ones are not available. You can also use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Ikra Ovoshchnaia can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Ikra Ovoshchnaia in a decorative bowl garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Ikra Ovoshchnaia pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or pita chips. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Ikra Ovoshchnaia in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Ikra Ovoshchnaia contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Ikra Ovoshchnaia contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Ikra Ovoshchnaia contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Ikra Ovoshchnaia contains approximately 2 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Ikra Ovoshchnaia is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and fiber.

Alergens

Ikra Ovoshchnaia contains soy sauce, which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Ikra Ovoshchnaia is a nutritious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet.

Summary

Ikra Ovoshchnaia is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for serving as a side dish or appetizer. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Olga in her quaint little village in Russia. Olga was known for her incredible cooking skills, and I always looked forward to trying out her delicious creations.

On this particular day, Olga invited me to join her in the kitchen as she prepared a dish called Ikra Ovoshchnaia, a traditional Russian vegetable caviar. I watched in awe as she skillfully chopped and sautéed the vegetables, adding just the right amount of seasoning to create a perfect blend of flavors.

As the aroma of the cooking vegetables filled the air, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. I had never tasted anything quite like it before, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

After hours of preparation, the Ikra Ovoshchnaia was finally ready. Olga served it on a slice of freshly baked bread, and with the first bite, I was hooked. The combination of sweet bell peppers, tangy tomatoes, and savory garlic was simply divine.

I begged Olga to share her recipe with me, and she graciously agreed. She explained each step in detail, from selecting the freshest vegetables to cooking them just right to achieve the perfect texture.

Over the years, I have made Ikra Ovoshchnaia countless times, each time remembering that happy day in Olga's kitchen. It has become a staple in my own cooking repertoire, and my family and friends always look forward to enjoying this flavorful dish.

I have since shared the recipe with many others, passing down the tradition of making Ikra Ovoshchnaia from generation to generation. It brings me great joy to see others enjoy this dish as much as I do, and I am grateful to Olga for introducing me to it all those years ago.

As I prepare Ikra Ovoshchnaia in my own kitchen now, I can't help but think of Olga and the fond memories we shared. The simple act of cooking together has created a bond that transcends time and distance, and for that, I am forever grateful.

So, the next time you find yourself craving a taste of Russia, why not try making Ikra Ovoshchnaia? I promise you won't be disappointed. Just remember to cook it with love and share it with those you hold dear, for that is the true secret ingredient to any great recipe. Bon appétit!