Mirepoix is the French name for a combination of diced onions, carrots, and celery. It can either roasted or sautéed, and is the flavor base for a many dishes, such as stocks, soups, stews and sauces. The Italian equivalent of Mirepoix is a Soffritto (same ingredients, different name). Depending on what kind of food you are cooking there are many other variations. In Cajun cuisine, a mirepoix or trinity contains onions, celery and bell peppers, there are Asian varieties with carrots, lemongrass and ginger.

Chop carrots (1), celery (2+3) and onion into equally sized, small pieces (4). Add 1 tablespoon of Extra Virgin olive oil to a large saucepan. Sauté vegetables at medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently.