Cheesy Vegetable Chowder

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 cups chopped potatoes (about 300g)
• 1 cup chopped carrots (about 150g)
• 1 cup chopped celery (about 100g)
• 1 cup frozen or fresh peas (about 150g)
• 1 cup chopped onions (about 100g)
• 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 4 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 pound cheese, cubed (about 450g) (use a variety like Cheddar or Swiss)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter (optional)

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 30-40 minutes

Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large pot, combine the chopped potatoes, carrots, celery, peas, and onions.
2. Add the flour and stir well to coat the vegetables.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth or water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the cubed cheese until fully melted.
5. Season with salt and pepper according to taste.
6. If desired, add butter to enhance flavor.
7. Serve hot in individual bowls.

Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 total servings)

• Calories: Approx. 350-400 per serving (depending on the type of cheese used)
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g
• Protein: 15-20g

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and rich, with a strong vegetable flavor.
• Cheesy and hearty, perfect for colder weather or as a comforting dish.
• Can be customized with different types of cheese to change the flavor profile.

User Comments:

• "This dish was so comforting and filling! The cheese added a nice creamy texture."
• "I loved the combination of vegetables in this chowder. It was very satisfying."
• "I made this for my family and they loved it! The cheese made it extra tasty."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Use a variety of cheese to experiment with flavors (Cheddar, Swiss, Monterey Jack, etc.).
• Adjust the seasoning according to taste. Some people may prefer more salt or pepper.
• If you want to make this dish vegetarian, use vegetable-based broth or water and omit the butter.
• This dish is great for batch cooking and freezing for later. Reheat before serving.