Irresistible Savory Vegetable Cake

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Irresistible Savory Vegetable Cake

The Delightful Story Behind Savory Vegetable Cake

Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dish that blurs the lines between cake and casserole. This Savory Vegetable Cake is a testament to the magic that happens when simple, fresh ingredients come together in perfect harmony.

Far from your typical sweet dessert, this cake is a celebration of savory flavors, bringing together the richness of eggs, the freshness of vegetables, and the comforting texture of a perfectly baked dish. It’s a versatile recipe that can shine as a breakfast centerpiece, a lunch main course, or a dinner side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Precise Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors

Wet Ingredients

  • Eggs: 3 large
  • Fresh Milk: 1 cup (240 ml / 8 fl oz)
  • Vegetable Oil: 1/2 cup (120 ml / 4 fl oz)

Dry Ingredients

  • Salt: 1 tsp (5 g)
  • Sugar: 1 tsp (4 g)
  • All-Purpose Flour: 2 tsp (10 g)
  • Baking Powder: 1 tbsp (15 g)

Vegetable and Cheese Topping

  • Tomatoes: 2 medium
  • Onion: 1 medium
  • Yellow Cheese: 60 g (2.1 oz), grated

Step-by-Step Culinary Creation

Prepare the Batter

  1. Wet Ingredient Mixture
    • Select a deep mixing bowl
    • Crack 3 eggs into the bowl
    • Whisk eggs until well beaten
    • Pour in fresh milk
    • Add vegetable oil
    • Whisk thoroughly until smooth and well-combined
  2. Dry Ingredient Preparation
    • In a separate bowl, combine:
      • All-purpose flour
      • Salt
      • Baking powder
    • Whisk dry ingredients to ensure even distribution
  3. Batter Mixing
    • Gradually add dry ingredient mixture to wet ingredients
    • Stir carefully to create a smooth, lump-free batter
    • Mix until just combined – avoid overmixing

Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Wash tomatoes and onion thoroughly
  2. Thinly slice tomatoes
  3. Finely chop onion
  4. Optional: Prepare additional protein like sliced sausage if desired

Baking Process

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
  2. Prepare cake tin:
    • Grease thoroughly with oil
    • Lightly dust with flour
    • Tap out excess flour
  3. Layering
    • Pour half the batter into prepared tin
    • Evenly distribute sliced onions and tomatoes
    • Pour remaining batter
    • Top with more vegetable slices
    • Sprinkle grated yellow cheese evenly
  4. Baking
    • Place in preheated oven
    • Bake for 40 minutes
    • Check for doneness:
      • Golden brown top
      • Firm center
      • Toothpick test (should come out clean)
  5. Cooling
    • Remove from oven
    • Let cool in tin for 10-15 minutes
    • Carefully remove from pan
    • Slice and serve

Nutritional Insights and Cooking Details

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8 slices

Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate per serving):

  • Calories: 250-300
  • Protein: 8-10g
  • Carbohydrates: 15-18g
  • Fat: 18-22g
  • Calcium: 10-15% Daily Value

Pro Culinary Tips and Techniques

  • Batter Consistency: Mix until just combined for a tender crumb
  • Vegetable Prep: Slice vegetables thinly for even distribution
  • Cheese Tip: Use freshly grated cheese for best melting
  • Moisture Control: Drain excess liquid from tomatoes
  • Flavor Enhancement: Add herbs like basil or thyme
  • Overmixing Warning: Stir batter gently to prevent toughness

Creative Variations and Substitutions

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour blend
  • Dairy-Free Modification: Replace milk with plant-based alternative
  • Protein Variations: Try different cheeses or add ham
  • Vegetable Swap: Experiment with zucchini, bell peppers
  • Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika
  • Herb Garden: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes! It keeps well at room temperature for 1-2 days.

Q2: What can I serve with this savory cake? A: Perfect with a green salad or as a brunch centerpiece.

Q3: How do I store leftovers? A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for 3-4 days.

Q4: Can I freeze this cake? A: Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month.

Q5: Can I add meat to this recipe? A: Absolutely! Bacon, ham, or sausage work wonderfully.

Storage and Preparation Insights

  • Room Temperature: 1-2 days in covered container
  • Refrigeration: 3-4 days in airtight container
  • Freezing: Up to 1 month when wrapped properly
  • Reheating: Warm in oven at 160°C (320°F) for best texture
  • Meal Prep: Excellent for make-ahead lunches or picnics

Enjoy this delightful Savory Vegetable Cake – a true celebration of simple, delicious ingredients!

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