Ratatouille is a quintessential dish from Provence, France, combining fresh vegetables in a flavorful and aromatic sauce. This vegetable stew is not only delicious but also a healthy choice, perfect for any occasion. Learn how to make this classic French dish with the recipe below!
Ingredients:
- 1 medium eggplant, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Dice the eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes into uniform pieces.
- Chop the onion and garlic finely.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
- Add the eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers to the skillet.
- Stir to combine, cooking for 10-12 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir occasionally to ensure the vegetables are evenly cooked.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet along with fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Stir everything together, ensuring the vegetables are coated in the seasonings.
- Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Once the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish with fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.
- Serve hot, either as a side dish or as a main course with crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Ratatouille:
- Use fresh, in-season vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
- You can make this dish ahead of time, as the flavors develop and intensify when stored in the refrigerator.
- For extra richness, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil on top before serving.
Ratatouille is a beautiful, rustic dish that highlights the best of French country cooking. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the centerpiece of your meal, it’s sure to impress anyone at the table. Enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer with this classic French recipe!
