Sauté the Onion:
Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until soft, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the Carrots and Celery:
Grate the carrots and chop the celery into small pieces. Add them to the skillet with the onions and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the Radish and Garlic:
Chop the radish into small pieces and add to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Add the Leek and Parsley:
Chop the leek, including the green parts, and the parsley. Add them to the skillet, stirring to combine.
Season the Vegetables:
Add 5 teaspoons of salt and 1-2 tablespoons of turmeric to the vegetable mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.
Simmer the Vegetables:
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the vegetables simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are very soft and fully cooked.
Blend the Vegetables:
After simmering, use a blender or an immersion blender to grind the vegetables into a smooth, thick paste. If the mixture is too thick, add a small amount of water to help blend.
Prepare for Freezing:
Line a baking dish with parchment paper. Spread the vegetable mixture evenly in the dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Freeze the Mixture:
Place the baking dish in the freezer for 12 hours or until the mixture is completely frozen.
Cut into Cubes:
Once frozen, remove the dish from the freezer and cut the mixture into small cubes.
Store the Bouillon Cubes:
Wrap the cubes individually in foil or parchment paper. Store the bouillon cubes in a freezer-safe container or bag in the freezer.
Use the Bouillon Cubes:
When ready to use, dissolve a cube in boiling water to create an aromatic and natural broth for soups, stews, or sauces.
Cooking Tips
Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes to the mix for additional flavor.
Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. You can add other spices like cumin or coriander for a different flavor profile.
Blending: Ensure the vegetable mixture is smooth for even, well-formed cubes.
Nutritional Benefits
Vitamins and Minerals: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K from the vegetables.
Turmeric: Adds anti-inflammatory properties and a warm flavor to the broth.
Low in Calories: A healthy, low-calorie way to enhance the flavor of your dishes.
Dietary Information
This recipe is vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
Nutritional Facts (per cube, based on 20 cubes)
Calories: Approximately 10 kcal
Protein: 0.5 grams
Carbohydrates: 2 grams
Fat: 0.2 grams
Fiber: 0.5 grams
Storage
Freezing: Store the bouillon cubes in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Usage: Use directly from the freezer; no need to thaw before dissolving in boiling water.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavorful: Adds rich, natural flavor to your dishes without artificial ingredients.
Convenient: Make once and store for months, ready to use whenever needed.
Healthy: Packed with vegetables and free from preservatives.
Versatile: Perfect for soups, stews, sauces, and more.
Conclusion
These homemade vegetable bouillon cubes are a fantastic way to preserve the flavors and vitamins of fresh vegetables for the winter months. With a rich blend of sautéed vegetables and aromatic spices, these cubes will elevate any dish with their natural, wholesome taste. Easy to prepare and store, they are a must-have for anyone who loves cooking from scratch. Enjoy the convenience and flavor of these homemade bouillon cubes in your favorite recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or zucchini for extra flavor.
Is turmeric necessary?
Turmeric adds a warm flavor and health benefits, but you can omit it or substitute with another spice like cumin.
How long do these bouillon cubes last?
They can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Can I add fresh herbs?
Yes, fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be added for more flavor.
Do I need to thaw the cubes before using?
No, you can add the cubes directly to boiling water or your dish.
Can I make the cubes smaller or larger?
Yes, cut the cubes to your preferred size based on how concentrated you want your broth to be.
Can I omit the salt?
The salt acts as a preservative and flavor enhancer, but you can reduce the amount if desired.
What if I don’t have a blender?
You can finely chop the vegetables after cooking, though the texture may be less smooth.
Can I use these cubes in cold dishes?
These cubes are best used in hot dishes where they can dissolve properly.
How many cubes should I use per cup of water?
Typically, use one cube per cup of water, but adjust based on your taste preference.
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