Autumn Simmering Pot
A warm, fragrant stew featuring seasonal spices, orange zest, and citrus slices, gently simmered to develop layered aromas. The dish culminates in a cozy, flavorful liquid with tender ingredients and a vibrant, spicy-citrus appearance, perfect for cooler months.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil such as vegetable or olive oil
- 1 large onion diced
- 2 carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 large orange zested and juiced
- 2 slices orange for garnish
- 1 pinch salt
- to taste honey or maple syrup optional for balancing bitterness
Instructions
- Heat the large pot over medium heat and add a tablespoon of cooking oil. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and sliced carrots, stirring until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves to the pot. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until the spices release their aromatic oils and the mixture is fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir to combine all the flavors evenly.
- Grate the zest of the orange and squeeze out the juice. Add both the zest and juice to the pot, stirring well to incorporate the citrus into the simmering broth.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften. Stir occasionally and taste for seasoning, adding a pinch of salt or a splash of honey if desired.
- Remove the pot from heat and ladle the warm, fragrant broth into bowls. Garnish each serving with a slice of fresh orange for a lively citrus touch.
Notes
Adjust spice levels to taste. For a thicker consistency, mash some of the cooked vegetables into the broth before serving.