I really enjoyed the ingredient animations. The frog and the eye were my favourite. I've always enjoyed match-3 games, so I spent a good 10-15 minutes making matches and completing recipes.
I think to really add immersion, the ingredients should play a unique sound effect when a match is made. For example, if 3 frogs are matched together, maybe I would hear a ribbit. I think that small change would help complete the experience.
I also think an additional challenge should be introduced to keep the game from lasting too long. I wanted to see the end screen, so eventually I stopped completing recipes and actively tried swapping ingredients into unfavourable positions to end the game. But it wouldn't let me lose.
I definitely agree with @jocolloman, it would be great to see your team continue to add more mechanics and something to spend my gold on!