Soups & Stews > Soup Making Techniques > Building Flavor > The Importance of Mirepoix

The Mirepoix Foundation: A Classic Soup Base

Discover the art of building flavor in soups and stews using the classic mirepoix. This simple combination of carrots, celery, and onion creates a deeply satisfying and aromatic base for countless recipes.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20-25 minutes
Servings
Enough for 6-8 servings of soup
Ingredients
  • 1 medium Onion
  • 2 medium Carrot
  • 2 stalks Celery
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil or Butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper

Preparing the Vegetables

Finely dice the onion, carrots, and celery. The size of the dice should be consistent for even cooking. Aim for pieces that are about 1/4 to 1/2 inch in size.

Sautéing the Mirepoix

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Season with salt and pepper.

Cooking to Sweetness

Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and slightly sweet, about 20-25 minutes. The onion should be translucent and the carrots and celery tender. Avoid browning the vegetables too much.

Building the Soup

Once the mirepoix is cooked, you can add your broth or stock and other soup ingredients. The mirepoix will release its flavor as the soup simmers, creating a rich and complex base.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods. They are based on the mirepoix itself and do not include the final soup ingredients. Calories: Approximately 40-60kcal, Carbohydrates: 5-8g, Protein: 1-2g, Fat: 2-4g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

The mirepoix adds minimal calories but significantly contributes to the flavor and aroma of the soup, allowing you to use less salt and fat overall. It's also a good source of vitamins and fiber.

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FAQ

  • Can I use other vegetables in my mirepoix?

    While the classic mirepoix consists of onion, carrot, and celery, you can experiment with other aromatics like leeks, parsnips, or fennel. However, be mindful of how these additions will affect the overall flavor profile of your soup.
  • Can I freeze mirepoix for later use?

    Yes, you can freeze mirepoix. Sauté it first, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. You can add it directly to your soup from frozen.
  • What's the ratio of ingredients for a classic mirepoix?

    The standard ratio is 2 parts onion, 1 part carrot, and 1 part celery (2:1:1).