Golden Vegetable and Cheese Bake: A Savory Delight

Indulge in the savory goodness of a hearty Vegetable and Cheese Bake, a wholesome dish bursting with flavors and nutrients. This recipe combines the freshness of grated potatoes, onions, carrots, peppers, and spring onions with the richness of eggs, milk, cheese, and seasonings. Baked to perfection, it’s a delightful addition to any meal, offering comfort and satisfaction with every bite.

Ingredients:

  • 3 large potatoes, grated
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 pepper, diced
  • A bunch of spring onions, chopped
  • 3 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup milk (250 ml/8.5 fl.oz)
  • 200 grams flour / 8.8 ounces
  • 150 grams of cheese / 5.3 oz, grated
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Sunflower oil for frying

Preparation Time:

Preparing this Vegetable and Cheese Bake takes about 20 minutes, followed by baking for 50 minutes, resulting in a total cooking time of approximately 70 minutes. It’s a straightforward recipe that yields six servings, with each serving providing around 320 calories of nourishing goodness.

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the oven reaches the correct temperature by the time you’re ready to bake.
  2. Prepare the Vegetables:
    • Potatoes: Peel and grate 3 large potatoes.
    • Onion: Finely chop 1 large onion.
    • Carrot: Peel and grate 1 medium carrot.
    • Pepper: Dice 1 medium pepper (choose any color you prefer).
    • Spring Onions: Chop a bunch of spring onions, including both the white and green parts.

    Place all these prepared vegetables into a large mixing bowl and toss them together to ensure they are well mixed.

  3. Prepare the Batter:
    • In a separate mixing bowl, crack in 3 eggs.
    • Add 1 cup (250 ml) of milk to the eggs.
    • Whisk the eggs and milk together until they are fully combined.
    • Gradually sift in 200 grams of flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder to the egg mixture, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps.
    • Add salt and black pepper to taste (start with about 1 teaspoon of each and adjust according to your preference).
    • Grate approximately 150 grams of cheese (your choice, something that melts well like cheddar or mozzarella) and fold it into the batter.
    • Continue to whisk the mixture until it achieves a smooth, uniform consistency without any flour clumps.
  4. Combine Vegetable and Batter Mixtures:
    • Pour the egg and cheese batter over the mixed vegetables in the large bowl.
    • Use a large spoon or spatula to stir the mixture, ensuring that the vegetables are evenly coated with the batter.
  5. Prepare the Baking Dish:
    • Lightly grease a baking dish with sunflower oil. Choose a dish that can accommodate the mixture, allowing it to spread out to about 1-2 inches thick.
    • Pour the vegetable and batter mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  6. Bake the Dish:
    • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
    • Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top of the bake is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
    • Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick or a fork into the center of the bake; if it comes out clean, the bake is ready.
  7. Serve:
    • Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
    • Cut the bake into squares or slices and serve while warm.

Serving Suggestion:

This hearty vegetable bake pairs well with a side of fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette dressing. It can also be served alongside grilled chicken or fish for a wholesome meal.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Rich in fiber from the vegetables, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
  • Good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C from peppers and carrots, and potassium from potatoes.
  • Provides protein from eggs and cheese, essential for muscle repair and growth.

Recipe Tips:

  • Ensure the vegetables are evenly mixed in the batter to distribute flavors and textures.
  • Use a baking dish that allows the mixture to spread evenly for consistent baking.
  • Experiment with different cheese varieties for varied flavor profiles.

Why I Love This Recipe:

  1. Versatility: This recipe allows for customization with various vegetables and cheese choices.
  2. Nutrient-Rich: It provides a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and vitamins.
  3. Easy Preparation: Simple steps and readily available ingredients make it a convenient dish.
  4. Family Favorite: Loved by all ages, making it a go-to for gatherings and weeknight dinners.
  5. Leftovers Delight: Tastes even better the next day, ideal for meal prepping.

Conclusion: This vegetable bake is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a wholesome addition to any mealtime. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and health benefits make it a standout recipe that I love to share with family and friends.