Ceredigion-inspired Faux Sugo

Ingredients

In this Ceredigion-inspired version, we incorporate local ingredients and flavors to give the dish a unique twist. We use fresh vegetables sourced from the region, such as locally grown onions, carrots, and celery, to add a touch of Ceredigion's agricultural heritage. Additionally, we infuse the stew with traditional Welsh herbs and spices, like leeks and thyme, to enhance the flavors and create a distinct taste that reflects the culinary traditions of Ceredigion. We alse have the original recipe for Sugo finto, so you can check it out.

• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 leek, sliced 1 leek, sliced
• 1 teaspoon (5g) fresh thyme leaves 1 teaspoon (5g) fresh thyme leaves
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 2 cans (400g each) diced tomatoes 2 cans (400g each) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) tomato paste 1 tablespoon (15ml) tomato paste
• 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth 1 cup (240ml) vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 27g, 12g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and lightly browned.
3. 3.
   Stir in the minced garlic, sliced leek, fresh thyme leaves, and bay leaf. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. 4.
   Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. 5.
   Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. 7.
   Remove the bay leaf before serving.
8. 8.
   Serve the Ceredigion-inspired Faux Sugo hot with crusty bread or over rice.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Leek — Make sure to thoroughly wash the leek before slicing it, as it tends to accumulate dirt between its layers.

Tips & Tricks

• For a heartier stew, you can add cooked beans, such as cannellini or borlotti beans, to the dish.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the stew.
• To enhance the umami taste, you can sprinkle some nutritional yeast on top of the stew before serving.
• Feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preference and what is in season.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for a quick and delicious meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Ceredigion-inspired Faux Sugo hot in bowls, accompanied by crusty bread or a side of fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for an extra burst of flavor.

Presentation advice

To make the dish visually appealing, ladle the stew into individual bowls and top with a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs on top for a pop of color. Serve with a side of warm bread or rice.