The vegetable plumcake is a versatile and delicious solution for those looking for a hearty and tasty dish. This preparation combines the convenience of a fluffy dough with the goodness of seasonal vegetables, creating a result that appeals to adults and children alike. Its versatility makes it perfect as an appetiser, light lunch or savoury snack.
The vegetable plumcake recipe requires a few basic steps to ensure an optimal result. This article will guide the reader through the selection of the most suitable ingredients, the correct preparation techniques and the secrets to perfect baking. Different variations of the basic recipe will also be explored, allowing you to customise the dish according to your own taste and dietary requirements.
Key ingredients for a perfect vegetable plumcake
The preparation of a perfect vegetable pound cake starts with the careful choice of basic ingredients. Each component plays a key role in determining the final success of the dish.
Choosing seasonal vegetables
For a tasty vegetable pound cake, it is essential to select fresh, seasonal vegetables. Popular options include:
- Courgettes and carrots for their natural texture and sweetness
- Mixed peppers for colour and flavour
- Peas and spinach for a touch of freshness
- Cherry tomatoes and olives for savoury notes
The total amount of vegetables should not exceed 300 grams to maintain the right proportion with the mixture.
Suitable flour and yeast
- The plumcake base requires 180 grams of sifted 00 flour, which ensures a fluffy and even consistency.
- Instant yeast for savoury preparations (approx. 16 grams) is essential to achieve the right leavening.
These dry ingredients must be mixed thoroughly before combining them with the liquid elements.
Cheese and flavourings to enhance the flavour
To enrich the taste, we recommend adding 50 grams of grated Grana Padano DOP to the dough. The scamorza or provola cheese (100 grams) gives that stringy note that makes the plumcake irresistible. For the aromas, fresh basil and a pinch of black pepper naturally enhance the flavours of the vegetables, while fine salt (5 grams) perfectly balances the overall taste.
The liquid part of the preparation requires 165 grams of eggs (about 3 medium-sized ones), 100 ml of oil and 100 ml of milk, which provide the right softness to the dough.
Preparing the dough and vegetables
Careful preparation of the vegetables and dough is the heart of the vegetable plumcake recipe. This step requires special attention to ensure an optimal result.
Pre-cutting and cooking the vegetables
Before starting the dough, it is essential to prepare the vegetables correctly. Each variety requires a specific technique:
- Cut courgettes into thin slices lengthways
- Cut peppers into 8×2.5 cm strips
- Cut carrots into small cubes
- Divide the cherry tomatoes in half
The vegetables should be cooked separately in a pan with a little oil, keeping them soft but firm. It is essential to allow them to cool completely before incorporating them into the dough.
Mixing the dry and wet ingredients
The preparation of the dough follows a precise sequence:
- Sift the flour with the yeast into a large bowl
- Add the grated cheese to the dry ingredients
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs at room temperature
- Incorporate the oil and milk slowly into the egg mixture
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients
Incorporate the vegetables into the mixture
The last step requires particular delicacy. The vegetables, which are now cold, should be incorporated into the dough with movements from the bottom upwards using a spatula. It is advisable to keep a small amount aside for decorating the surface of the plumcake. The final mixture should be homogenous but not too worked, to prevent the vegetables from falling apart.
Before pouring the mixture into the mould, it is important to line it with baking paper or, alternatively, to butter and flour it thoroughly. This will ensure a perfect demoulding of the vegetable plumcake once it is baked.
Cooking and presentation of the plumcake
The baking stage is the crucial moment for the success of the vegetable pound cake, where all the ingredients blend perfectly to create a soft and tasty result.
Optimal baking temperature and time
The oven must be preheated to 180°C in static mode. Baking times vary between 40 and 60 minutes, following these essential steps:
- Preheat the oven for at least 10 minutes
- Place the mould in the centre of the oven
- Set the timer initially for 40 minutes
- Check the colouring after 30 minutes
- If necessary, cover with aluminium foil to prevent over-browning
Cooking check
Checking the baking requires special attention to ensure a perfect result:
- Insert a toothpick in the centre of the plumcake: it must come out completely dry
- Check the colour of the surface, which must be evenly golden brown
- Check that the edges pull away slightly from the mould
- Check that the surface is slightly cracked but not burnt
Cooling and cutting
The cooling process is as crucial as the baking itself. The vegetable plumcake needs gradual cooling to maintain its optimal texture. It is recommended to let it cool initially in the switched-off oven for 10 minutes, then gently unmould it on a wire rack. Complete cooling takes about an hour.
To obtain perfect slices, it is essential to wait until completely cooled. Only then can the slices be cut with a smooth, sharp knife. The slices will be firm, with the vegetables well distributed and will retain their characteristic shape.
The plumcake will keep perfectly at room temperature for two days, covered by a glass bell. For longer periods, it is advisable to store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Variations and tips for customising the recipe
The versatility of the vegetable plumcake is best expressed through the many variations that can be made from the basic recipe. This dish lends itself to infinite customisation, allowing all tastes and dietary preferences to be satisfied.
Addition of protein (ham, bacon)
To further enrich the vegetable plumcake, various protein sources can be incorporated. Popular options include:
- diced provola or scamorza cheese (100g)
- Diced cooked ham (80g)
- Bacon or speck cut into strips (70g)
- Cheese cubes of your choice
These ingredients should be added after incorporating the vegetables into the mixture, stirring gently to distribute them evenly.
Vegetarian or vegan version
The vegetable plumcake lends itself perfectly to an all-vegetarian version. To achieve an equally soft and tasty result, you can replace animal ingredients with plant-based alternatives. Chickpea flour provides an excellent protein base, while the addition of spices such as curry or turmeric adds flavour and colour to the batter. For the vegan version, milk can be replaced with unsweetened vegetable drinks.
Storage and consumption
Proper storage ensures that the plumcake retains its fragrance and softness. Here are the basic steps:
- Wait for complete cooling before storing
- Wrap in cling film or store in an airtight container
- Store at room temperature for 2 days
- In case of high temperatures, prefer refrigerated storage
- Avoid freezing as this may alter the consistency
The vegetable plumcake is perfect as an appetiser, for an aperitif with friends or as an alternative to bread during meals. It can be served either at room temperature or slightly warmed, accompanied by vegetable spreads or fresh cheese. For a fresh touch, each slice can be garnished with salad leaves or herbs.
Conclusion
The preparation of the vegetable plumcake represents a perfect balance between culinary technique and creativity in the kitchen. The key elements for the success of this recipe lie in the careful choice of fresh ingredients, the careful preparation of the vegetables and the observance of cooking times and temperatures. The versatility of this dish allows it to be easily adapted to personal preferences, making it an excellent choice for any occasion.
This plumcake stands out as a practical and tasty solution for those who want to combine flavour and lightness in a single preparation. The many possible variants, from the classic to the vegetarian or vegan version, demonstrate its adaptability to different dietary requirements. The simplicity of preparation, combined with the possibility of preservation, makes this dish a smart choice for those looking for a healthy and tasty alternative to enjoy at any time of day.
