Monsoon Vegetable Elixir Sip of Wellness
Are you eager to learn how to create a bowl of warm and nutrient-rich comforting broth? This delectable dish is typically made by simmering a variety of vegetables, herbs, and spices, offering a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health. Learn the art of stirring this delicious, hearty, and nourishing meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups assorted vegetables, roughly chopped (carrots, celery, onions, garlic, beans, mushrooms)
- 8-10 cups of water
- A bay leaf
- A handful of fresh herbs, thyme, parsley, oregano, rosemary
- 1 tsp whole peppercorns
- 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 tbsp cold-pressed coconut oil
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large pot.
- Add the chopped onions, garlic to the pot and sauté until they become fragrant and lightly browned.
- Add the rest of the vegetables to the pot and continue sautéing for a few more minutes.
- Pour in the water, ensuring that the vegetables are fully submerged.
- Add the bay leaf, fresh herbs, peppercorns, turmeric powder, and salt to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 1 hour. Stir it occasionally.
- After the simmering time, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a bit.
- Strain the broth using a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl, separating the vegetables from the liquid.
- Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or herbs.
- Allow the broth to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days for any time use.
Recipe tips and variations
- You can use vegetable broth as a base for soups, stews, and sauces, or simply enjoy it as a warm and comforting drink during the monsoon season.
- After sieving the broth, you can use leftover vegetables to make a sabzi or puree in a blender or food processor and mix them with ingredients like yogurt, to create a tasty dip or spread. Serve it with crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks.
Notes
- Vegetable broth is a powerhouse of vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, and several B vitamins such as folate (vitamin B9).
- Garlic and onions are particularly beneficial as they contain compounds like allicin (found in garlic) and quercetin (present in onions). These compounds have antimicrobial, antiviral, and antioxidant effects, which help strengthen the immune system and protect you against infections.
- Furthermore, the variety of vegetables used in broth contributes different phytonutrients, such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and sulfur compounds. These components make vegetable broth rich in antioxidants and also grant it anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
Nutrition
Calories: 18kcalCarbohydrates: 1.9gProtein: 2.1gFat: 2.5g
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