Cooking a delicious and elegant vegetarian meal doesn’t have to be complicated. This French-inspired recipe for Vegetarian Blanquette is a cozy and satisfying dish that will impress your guests and warm your home with its comforting aroma. Blanquette is traditionally a creamy stew made with meat, but this meatless version is just as rich and flavorful. With a creamy sauce and tender vegetables, this dish is perfect for a special dinner or a cozy night in.
**Vegetarian Blanquette**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the carrots, celery, and mushrooms to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
4. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Let the stew simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the vegetables are tender.
6. Add the frozen peas to the pot and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes until the peas are heated through.
7. Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve the Vegetarian Blanquette hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice.
Vegetarian Blanquette is a delightful twist on a classic French dish that will enchant your taste buds with every creamy bite. This recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a homemade meal, this Vegetarian Blanquette will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this hearty stew and savor every spoonful of this deliciously satisfying dish.
