The do’s and dont’s of making the perfect roast vegetables!
October 23, 2012 in Uncategorized
Making the perfect tray of roast vegetables seems more tricky then you might think. People often ask me what the secret is. I cannot answer that in one simple answer, because there seem to be a few pitfalls. Let us look at these pitfalls before I share my delicious recipe for roast vegetables with you!
Pitfall #1 – Roasting vegetables takes time
Often I arrive at a braai and the roasting pan with the vegetables are still on the kitchen counter and the meat is already on the grid. Big problem! To get the really sticky, charred vegetables you must allow at least 1½ hours for a big tray of roast vegetables. I cover my tray with foil for the first 30 minutes until all the vegetables are cooked, then open the tray and allow the vegetables to roast to perfection! So whatever your recipe for roast vegetables is, take time with it!
Pitfall #2 – Select your vegetables wisely
Root vegetables are perfect for roasting. These are your pumpkins, some squash, sweet potato, potato and carrots in all shapes and colors. Vegetables that have a tendency to make your roast watery are tomatoes, mushrooms and some squash such as your courgettes. Brinjals are perfect too, just treat with lemon juice to prevent them from turning brown. I love roast tomatoes, so to prevent the roast from going soggy, I add tomatoes 30 minutes before I remove roast from the oven. The same goes for mushrooms!
Pitfall #3 – Flavoring
For me personally, I like the less-is-more approach! In life and when making roast vegetables. Olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic and maybe a little turmeric for color or fresh thyme. That is it! I want to taste each and every vegetable, not the flavor you add on to it. Which brings us to the next pitfall!
Pitfall #4 – Buy fresh
We normally have roast vegetables after a shopping trip to our local fruit and vegetable store. I try and buy the smallest vegetables possible and they want to be cooked straight away. If you roast sad looking vegetables which are limp and not fresh , your end result will be dismal and not at all pleasant to the eye or taste buds . Try and get an whole array of different flavors and colors in your roasting tray…. the reward is so worth that extra 5 minutes you spent sourcing the best quality!
…and now for my favorite
Recipe for roast vegetables
Watch Dinner Divas every Saturday morning at 8.30 am on SABC 2. It is a cooking battle between 12 of the best food bloggers in South Africa. I am up against the best in this series so I need all the support I can get! Make a note and do join us for a good dollop of Saturday morning family fun. This coming Saturday Anel from Lifeisazoobiscuit and Barry from Wat Eet Ons will battle it out. You can read all about the Dinner Divas here!
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