Ratatouille: A Classic French Vegetable Medley

Ratatouille is a traditional French Provençal stewed vegetable dish, originating from Nice. This vibrant and hearty dish showcases a medley of summer vegetables such as tomatoes, zucchini, eggplant, and peppers, all simmered together with fragrant herbs. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a side, a main course, or even as a topping for grilled meats.

Ingredients:

– 2 medium eggplants (cut into cubes)
– 2 medium zucchinis (sliced)
– 1 large yellow bell pepper (cut into strips)
– 1 large red bell pepper (cut into strips)
– 4 large tomatoes (blanched, peeled, and chopped)
– 1 large onion (finely chopped)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and black pepper (to taste)
– Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the vegetables:
– Cut the eggplants, zucchinis, and bell peppers as described above. Place them separately in bowls.

2. Cook the onions and garlic:
– Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking until onions are translucent.

3. Add the tomatoes:
– Stir in the chopped tomatoes, allowing them to cook down and release their juices, about 5 minutes.

4. Cook the vegetables:
– In a separate large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplants and cook until they start to soften.
– Add the zucchinis and bell peppers to the pot with the eggplants. Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Combine and simmer:
– Transfer the sautéed onions, garlic, and tomatoes to the pot with the vegetables. Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
– Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the mixture simmer for about 30-35 minutes, until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.

6. Serve:
– Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Ratatouille can be enjoyed hot, at room temperature, or even chilled.

Enjoy your Ratatouille as a delightful main dish with crusty bread or as a flavorful accompaniment to any meal!