Mixed Vegetables

Mixed Vegetables Recipe - A Delicious Albanian Dish

Region / culture: Albania | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Mixed vegetables is a versatile and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed as a side or main course. This recipe combines a variety of vegetables with flavorful seasonings to create a delicious and satisfying dish.

History

Mixed vegetables have been a staple in many cultures for centuries. This dish likely originated as a way to use up leftover vegetables and create a hearty and nutritious meal. Over time, different variations of mixed vegetables have emerged, each with its own unique blend of flavors and ingredients.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) various vegetables (peppers, eggplant, okra, zucchini, potatoes, etc)
0.5 cup oil, divided
1 cup chopped onion
1 cup peeled chopped tomatoes
1 tbsp chopped parsley
salt, pepper

How to prepare

Cut off the inedible tips of the vegetables, wash them, and slice them into 1-inch squares.
In a frying pan, sauté the vegetables in half of the oil. Remove them from the pan.
In the same pan, sauté the onion and tomatoes in the remaining oil. Season with parsley, salt, and pepper.
Transfer everything to a stock pot. Add a cup of water, cover tightly, and simmer until almost all of the moisture has cooked away.

Variations

Add in some protein, such as tofu or chickpeas, for a more filling dish.
Experiment with different seasonings, such as curry powder or cumin, to change up the flavor profile.
Try using different vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, to create a unique and flavorful dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cut the vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Sautéing the vegetables before simmering them helps to enhance their flavor.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables and seasonings.

Serving Suggestions

Mixed vegetables can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish, or enjoyed on its own as a light and healthy meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the vegetables before simmering them helps to enhance their flavor and create a delicious dish. Be sure to cook the vegetables until they are tender but still slightly crisp for the best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite vegetables and seasonings. You can also substitute the oil with butter or ghee for a richer flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the vegetables in a pan before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the mixed vegetables in a colorful bowl or on a decorative platter for a visually appealing presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Mixed vegetables pair well with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, seafood, or tofu. Serve with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover mixed vegetables can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of mixed vegetables contains approximately 200 calories, making it a light and healthy option for any meal.

Carbohydrates

Mixed vegetables are a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy for the body. The carbohydrates in this dish come from the various vegetables used in the recipe.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the oil used for sautéing the vegetables. Using a healthy oil, such as olive oil, can help to increase the nutritional value of the dish.

Proteins

While this dish is primarily made up of vegetables, there may be some protein content from the vegetables themselves. Adding a protein source, such as tofu or beans, can help to increase the protein content of the dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Mixed vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. These nutrients are essential for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as dairy, nuts, and gluten. However, be sure to check the ingredients for any potential allergens before preparing the dish.

Summary

Mixed vegetables are a nutritious and delicious dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. This recipe is a healthy option for any meal and can be easily customized to suit your preferences.

Summary

Mixed vegetables are a nutritious and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a side or main course. This recipe is easy to customize and can be made ahead of time for a convenient meal option. Enjoy the flavors of fresh vegetables and seasonings in this satisfying dish.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for mixed vegetables. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, whipping up delicious meals with ease and grace. I would watch her in awe as she chopped, stirred, and simmered, creating magic with every dish she made.

One day, as I sat at the kitchen table watching her prepare dinner, she looked over at me with a twinkle in her eye. "Would you like to learn how to make mixed vegetables?" she asked. I nodded eagerly, thrilled at the prospect of adding another recipe to my growing repertoire. My grandmother smiled and began to walk me through the steps of creating this simple yet flavorful dish.

She started by gathering an assortment of fresh vegetables from the garden – carrots, green beans, corn, and peas. She showed me how to wash and chop each vegetable with care, making sure to cut them into even pieces so they would cook evenly. As she worked, she shared stories of how she had learned this recipe from her own grandmother, passing down the tradition through generations.

Next, she heated a skillet on the stove and added a bit of butter to melt. The kitchen filled with the rich aroma of sizzling vegetables as she tossed them in, one by one. She seasoned them with a pinch of salt, a dash of pepper, and a sprinkle of herbs from her garden – thyme, rosemary, and parsley. The colors of the vegetables brightened as they cooked, the flavors mingling together to create a symphony of taste and texture.

As the vegetables simmered, my grandmother shared her tips and tricks for making the perfect mixed vegetables. She emphasized the importance of not overcooking them, as they should be tender yet still crisp to the bite. She also taught me the secret ingredient that would take this dish to the next level – a splash of balsamic vinegar to add a touch of sweetness and acidity.

Finally, after a few more minutes of cooking, the mixed vegetables were ready to be served. My grandmother plated them carefully, arranging them in a colorful and inviting display. I took my first bite and was instantly transported to a world of flavors and memories. The vegetables were perfectly cooked, each one retaining its own unique taste and texture. The balsamic vinegar added a delightful tanginess that complemented the sweetness of the carrots and corn. It was a dish that was simple yet sophisticated, a true testament to the power of fresh ingredients and careful preparation.

From that day on, mixed vegetables became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I would make it for family dinners, potlucks with friends, and even special occasions when I wanted to impress guests with my culinary skills. Every time I prepared this dish, I would think of my grandmother and the lessons she had taught me in the kitchen. The recipe for mixed vegetables had become more than just a meal – it was a connection to my past, a reminder of the love and tradition that had been passed down through generations.

As I look back on that day when I first learned to make mixed vegetables, I am filled with gratitude for my grandmother and the knowledge she shared with me. Cooking has always been a way for me to express myself, to show love and care for those around me. And as I continue to create delicious meals in my own kitchen, I know that I am carrying on a legacy that began with a simple recipe for mixed vegetables. It is a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and fulfillment that comes from sharing good food with the ones you love.