Ratatouille is a classic French dish that is a perfect example of using a few simple yet quality ingredients and using their natural flavors to create a fresh, delicious taste. It’s comprised of stewed vegetables and is the perfect light dish for a summer evening. This recipe provides 4-6 servings.
Ingredients:
- 3 zucchinis
- 6 large tomatoes
- 1 large eggplant
- 3 yellow bell peppers
- 1 large yellow onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn up
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare all the vegetables by peeling, trimming, and chopping them into small chunks.
- Heat a little oil in a large pot and add the chopped zucchini. Add a little salt and gently fry until slightly browned and then put to one side.
- Repeat this with the bell peppers and eggplant.
- Heat a little oil in the pot and add the chopped onion. Season with a little salt and pepper and gently fry until soft and slightly browned.
- Add the garlic and the thyme and continue to fry for a further 5 minutes.
- Add the sliced tomatoes and cook until it begins to resemble a sauce.
- Remove from the heat and then add the cooked zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant.
- Pour the extra virgin olive oil in and gently stir to ensure the sauce and oil are mixed throughout. You can arrange the veg into slices or leave all mixed, it’s entirely up to you.
- Return to hob on low heat and place a lid on. Leave to simmer for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and stir through the basil leaves.
- Leave to stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
