Hearty Meat and Vegetable Bake

This hearty meat and vegetable bake is a comforting and nutritious dish that's perfect for any family meal. Tender pieces of meat are combined with a variety of fresh vegetables including potatoes, leeks, carrots, and beans, making it a vibrant and wholesome option. The dish is enhanced with fresh greens and seasoned with a touch of salt, allowing the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine. It's a great way to enjoy a balanced meal that's rich in essential nutrients and satisfying flavor. This bake is simple to prepare but requires patience as it cooks slowly in the oven, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully together. Ideal for a leisurely weekend dinner or for entertaining guests, this dish can be easily customized to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with a salad, the meat and vegetable bake is a timeless classic that can be enjoyed by all ages. Its aroma fills the kitchen, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for family and friends. Join us as we guide you through crafting this delightful culinary creation.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 600 g of meat
• 2 large potatoes
• 1/2 of a rutabaga
• 2 carrots
• 2 leeks
• 1 celery root
• 1 small cabbage, chopped
• 10 green bean pods
• 2 tomatoes
• 1 fresh cucumber

Spices and Seasonings:

• Salt, to taste
• A variety of fresh greens

Preparation Time

• Total Time: approximately 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by thoroughly washing and peeling all vegetables to ensure they are clean and ready for cooking.
2. Cut the meat into bite-sized pieces, making sure they are uniform for even cooking.
3. Slice the potatoes, carrots, rutabaga, and celery root into thin, even slices.
4. Chop the leeks into rounds, and shred the cabbage into thin strips.
5. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for a few minutes to retain their vibrant color and then set them aside.
6. In a large baking dish, layer the sliced potatoes to create a hearty base.
7. On top of the potatoes, add an even layer of meat pieces, spreading them out evenly.
8. Follow by layering the rutabaga, carrots, leeks, and celery root, ensuring each ingredient is distributed evenly for consistent flavor.
9. Scatter the green beans and cabbage on top, making sure they cover the underlying layers well.
10. Add the sliced tomatoes across the top for a burst of color and flavor if desired.
11. Season each layer with a pinch of salt and add a generous sprinkle of your choice of fresh greens.
12. Pour enough water slowly over the entire mixture to cover everything by about an inch.
13. Tightly cover the baking dish with a lid or aluminum foil to trap the steam and prevent drying.
14. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for precise and even baking.
15. Place the baking dish in the oven and allow it to cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
16. About halfway through cooking, check to ensure there is sufficient liquid, adding more water if necessary to prevent the dish from becoming too dry.
17. The vegetables should become fully tender, and the meat should be succulent and cooked through.
18. Remove the cover for the last 10 to 15 minutes of baking if you desire a slight browning or crisp texture on the top layer.
19. Once done, allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors set.
20. Serve warm, enjoying each bite of this deliciously hearty meal with loved ones.

Tips

• Substitutions: Swap rutabaga with turnips or parsnips for a slightly different taste.
• Greens Option: Use parsley, dill, or cilantro for added freshness.
• Liquid Base: You can use broth instead of water for an extra flavorful bake.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
• Protein: 25g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbs: 40g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Omit meat and add chickpeas or lentils for protein.
• Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or chopped jalapeños for some heat.
• Herb Blend: Use rosemary and thyme for an earthy, aromatic touch.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dish: Pair with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
• Garnish: Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese.
• Beverage: Serve with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water.

Best Places

• The Green Table - A delightful place known for organic and health-conscious dishes. Location: 75 9th Ave, New York, USA.
• Cafe Flora - Celebrated for its creative approach to vegetarian cuisine. Location: 2901 E Madison St, Seattle, USA.
• ABC Kitchen - Offers a farm-to-table experience with seasonal menus. Location: 35 E 18th St, New York, USA.
• Gjelina - A trendy spot offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Location: 1429 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, USA.
• Noma - Renowned for its inventive use of locally sourced ingredients. Location: Refshalevej 96, Copenhagen, Denmark.
• Chez Panisse - Pioneering the farm-to-table movement, focusing on local produce. Location: 1517 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, USA.
• Mildreds - Known for vibrant vegetarian and vegan options. Location: 44 Lexington St, Soho, London, UK.
• Joanne’s Trattoria - A cozy place with a family-friendly atmosphere. Location: 70 W 68th St, New York, USA.
• The Grove - Loved for its casual dining with hearty meals. Location: 123 Victoria St W, Auckland, New Zealand.
• Ora - Offers a fresh take on traditional vegetarian cuisine. Location: 59 Constitution St, Leith, Edinburgh, UK.