What are the components of a standard mirepoix?

• A. Onion, celery, and carrot
• B. Onion, garlic, and pepper
• C. Tomato, carrot, and celery
• D. Celery, leek, and potato

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is the standard mirepoix, a traditional flavor base used to build the depth of many stocks, sauces, and braises. The classic combination is onion, celery, and carrot. This trio provides a balanced foundation: onion gives savory sweetness and depth, carrot adds gentle sweetness and color, and celery contributes herbal aroma and a crisp edge. When preparing it, the vegetables are usually diced and gently sweated in fat until the onion is translucent, so the flavors meld without heavy browning. A common ratio is about 2 parts onion to 1 part celery and 1 part carrot by weight, keeping the base clean and versatile for many dishes. The other options mix in ingredients that aren’t part of the standard mirepoix, so they don’t establish the same foundational flavor.