modern mirepoix

makes 4 cups

Mirepoix is the traditional mix of diced carrots, onion, and celery, used as the base of many dishes. To save time when I'm cooking, I make a large batch in the food processor (no crying! no chopping!) and freeze it in 1 cup portions in ziploc bags, then just throw the block in a pan with some oil to begin a dish. The Modern version adds garlic as well as the traditional vegetables, but you can omit so you control how much garlic you use in each dish.

1 large yellow onion, skin and ends removed, cut into quarters
4 celery stalks (with leaves), cut into large chunks
1 package baby carrots
6 cloves garlic, peeled

Place all items in a food processor and pulse until pieces are the size of a pencil eraser. If there are large chunks left, remove them and process separately to avoid pureeing the other vegetables while you try to chop them!