What is mir poix?

Mirepoix is a mixture of diced vegetables that serve as a flavor base for many dishes, especially soups, stews, sauces, and braises. The classic French version is made up of equal parts onions, carrots, and celery. The vegetables are typically chopped into small, uniform pieces and then sautéed in oil or butter until they become soft and aromatic.

Mirepoix adds depth of flavor to dishes because it releases natural sugars and enhances the taste of the other ingredients. Depending on the recipe, other ingredients may be added to the mirepoix, such as garlic, tomato paste, and various herbs and spices.

Mirepoix can also refer to a similar mixture of vegetables used in Spanish, Italian, and Cajun cuisine. In Spanish cooking, the mixture is known as sofrito and includes onions, tomatoes, and peppers. The Italian version is called soffritto and typically includes onions, celery, and carrots. In Cajun cuisine, the mixture is called the holy trinity and consists of onions, celery, and green bell peppers.