Vegetarian Derma

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: Jewish

A savory vegetarian dish featuring a crunchy egg matzo crust, aromatic vegetables, and subtle seasonings, perfect for a hearty, meat-free meal or holiday gathering.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 c. grated carrots
  • 1 c. chopped onions
  • 1/2 c. chopped celery
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 1 (11 oz.) pkg. egg matzo crackers, crushed
  • 1 c. margarine, melted
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 1/4 tsp. poultry seasoning

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven and prepare a casing using aluminum foil.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine grated carrots, chopped onions, chopped celery, and crushed garlic.
  3. Add crushed egg matzo crackers, melted margarine, beaten eggs, salt, pepper, and poultry seasoning to the vegetable mixture. Mix thoroughly.
  4. Shape the mixture into a loaf or desired form and place it in the prepared casing.
  5. Bake until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  6. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the mixture. If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the egg matzo crackers with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Adjust the seasoning to your taste; fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the dish. Ensure the mixture is well-combined to maintain its structure during baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Vegetarian Derma sliced, alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Ginger-Orange Carrots for a delightful contrast in flavors. Consider a dollop of applesauce or a tangy sauce on the side to complement the savory notes of the dish.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 1-2 minutes, but this may affect the texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Vegetarian Derma contains roughly 1005 calories, with 14g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (163% of the Daily Value), calcium (73% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 902mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).

1005 kcal 50% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.7g 27% DV
Total Fat 61.9g 79% DV
Carbs 114g 41% DV
Fiber 11.2g 40% DV
Sugar 4.5g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 902.1mg 39% DV
Potassium 1095.9mg 23% DV
Cholesterol 154.9mg 52% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 196.4mcg 22% DV
Vitamin C 37.1mg 41% DV
Calcium 943.9mg 73% DV
Iron 29.4mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just shape it into a loaf and bake it the next day. This allows the flavors to meld nicely and can save you time when serving for special occasions.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this Vegetarian Derma vegan, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer. Additionally, use plant-based margarine instead of regular margarine. This will ensure a similar texture and flavor while keeping it entirely plant-based.

What can I serve with Vegetarian Derma?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with mashed potatoes for a comforting meal or a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. It also complements dishes like Grandmom Hagan'S Jewish Apple Pie for dessert, creating a satisfying meal experience.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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