What are the components of mirepoix and their typical ratio?

• A. Onions, carrots, and celery in a 3:2:1 ratio.
• B. Onions, carrots, and celery in a 2:1:1 ratio.
• C. Onions, leeks, and celery in a 2:1:1 ratio.
• D. Onions, peppers, and celery in a 2:1:1 ratio.

Answer: (B)

Mirepoix is a foundational flavor base built from aromatics to give depth to sauces, braises, and soups. The standard mix is onions, carrots, and celery in a 2:1:1 ratio. This balance lets the onion provide the strongest savory backbone, the carrot contribute gentle sweetness, and the celery add bright, herbal aroma without overpowering the others. Keeping two parts onion to one part carrot and one part celery creates a harmonious foundation that can support a wide range of dishes. Using leeks instead of carrots or peppers would shift the flavor away from the traditional profile, and a 3:2:1 mix would tilt the balance toward onion and carrot, dulling the delicate aroma and sweetness that the classic ratio maintains.