Ingredients

• 1 large leek, cut into rings
• 2 kohlrabi, peeled and cut into thin slices
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cut into thin slices
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
• 200 ml plant-based cream (¾ cup), such as oat cream or coconut cream
• 100 ml vegetable broth (⅓ cup + 1 tbsp)
• 1 carrot, peeled and cut into thin slices
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon mustard (medium hot)
• 3 tablespoons oatmeal (for extra texture)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika powder
• Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary, chopped for garnish

Steps How to Make It

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing, peeling, and chopping all of your vegetables as instructed above. Cutting everything into thin slices ensures that the vegetables cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors. Slice the leek into rings, peel and slice the potatoes, kohlrabi, and carrots into thin rounds. Chop the onion and garlic finely so they can melt into the creamy sauce. Having everything prepped ahead of time will make the cooking process smooth and easy.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the sliced leek, carrot, and kohlrabi, sautéing for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Cream

Once the vegetables are slightly softened, add the vegetable broth to the pan. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the vegetables to absorb the flavors of the broth. Once the broth is nearly evaporated (about 5-6 minutes), pour in the plant-based cream. Stir everything to coat the vegetables evenly in the cream.

Step 4: Season the Dish

Add the mustard, paprika powder, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir the ingredients together to combine. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed to suit your preferences. If you like a spicier kick, add more mustard or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Step 5: Add the Oatmeal and Simmer

Now, stir in the oatmeal. This is the key ingredient that will help thicken the sauce and add some texture. Continue to simmer the dish for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the oatmeal to soften and absorb some of the liquid, creating a creamy, cohesive sauce.

Step 6: Finish Cooking

Once the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the pan from the heat. Taste once more to ensure the seasoning is perfect. Transfer the vegetable mixture to a serving dish or casserole dish, if desired.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped thyme or rosemary on top of the dish for a fragrant and beautiful finish. You can also add extra fresh herbs on top just before serving for an added burst of freshness.

Prep Time

• 20 minutes

Cooking Time

• 20-30 minutes

Total Time

• 40-50 minutes

Servings

• Serves 4-6 people

Explanation of the Recipe and Why It’s Timeless

This Creamy Vegetable Medley with Mustard and Oatmeal is timeless because it reflects everything we value in both food and cooking: wholesome ingredients, nourishing flavors, and versatility. Root vegetables are the backbone of this dish, providing rich textures and satisfying qualities that make the meal filling and comforting. The oat cream base brings a subtle creaminess, while the mustard and paprika introduce a well-rounded, savory depth to the flavors. This balance makes the dish appropriate for both casual meals and more refined gatherings, as it delivers on both comfort and sophistication.

Not only is this dish healthy and filling, but it’s also easy to make and adaptable to different dietary needs. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just someone looking for a wholesome dish, this vegetable medley can be enjoyed by almost everyone, making it a versatile and timeless recipe.

Vegetables like leeks, kohlrabi, and carrots are often overlooked but deserve the spotlight. They offer unique flavors and textures that, when paired together, create a symphony of taste that is nothing short of delightful. The inclusion of oatmeal is a stroke of brilliance, as it enhances the creaminess of the dish without overwhelming the flavors, while also adding nutritional value.

This recipe is also easy to scale up or down depending on your needs, making it a great option for family dinners, meal prepping for the week, or even special occasions. Its hearty, satisfying nature makes it suitable as a main course for vegetarians or a side dish for meat lovers.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 180 kcal
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 250mg
• Sugar: 4g

FAQs

1. Can I use dairy cream instead of plant-based cream? Yes, you can substitute dairy cream for plant-based cream in this recipe if you are not following a vegan diet. However, using plant-based cream keeps the dish light and dairy-free.
2. Can I add other vegetables to this dish? Absolutely! You can add any root vegetables such as parsnips, turnips, or even sweet potatoes. Experiment with different vegetables to suit your taste or whatever you have in your kitchen.
3. What can I use instead of oatmeal? If you don’t have oatmeal on hand, you could substitute it with breadcrumbs or even cooked quinoa. The oatmeal helps thicken the sauce, so any ingredient that can absorb liquid and add texture will work well.
4. How can I make this dish spicier? If you love spice, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes along with the paprika. A dash of hot sauce can also add a flavorful kick.

Tips on How to Make

• For an even more decadent version, you can sprinkle some plant-based or dairy cheese on top before baking it in the oven for a crispy, cheesy finish.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the mixture simmer longer to reduce the liquid.
• Make sure to slice the vegetables thinly to ensure they cook evenly and quickly.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Conclusion

This Creamy Vegetable Medley with Mustard and Oatmeal is a celebration of the simplicity and beauty of plant-based cooking. With its combination of creamy textures, hearty root vegetables, and tangy mustard, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by all, regardless of dietary restrictions. Its rich, satisfying flavors make it a perfect comfort food option, while its versatility ensures that it will remain a go-to recipe for years to come. Whether you are feeding a family or preparing a meal for yourself, this dish will bring warmth, flavor, and nourishment to your table, making it an unforgettable part of your culinary repertoire.