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Mirepoix is a foundational aromatic base used in French cooking, typically consisting of finely diced onions, carrots, and celery in a 2:1:1 ratio. It is not a standalone dish but a flavor-building starting point for soups, stews, sauces, and braises.
Mirepoix is low in calories, carbohydrates, and fat, providing primarily dietary fiber and essential vitamins like vitamin A from carrots and vitamin K from celery. A typical 1-cup serving contains roughly 50-70 calories.
Culturally, mirepoix is considered the 'holy trinity' of French cuisine, forming the flavor backbone for countless classic dishes. Its simple, balanced combination of vegetables is designed to release a deep, savory aroma when slowly sautéed, a technique known as sweating.