French Ratatouille: A Colorful Taste of Provence - Tuesday, Week 22

Feel the sun-soaked romance of the French countryside with our Tuesday treat—Ratatouille. This traditional Provencal dish is a celebration of vegetables, with tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers coming together in a vibrant melody of flavors. It's simple, rustic, and absolutely delicious.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 large eggplant (aubergine), cut into 1-inch cubes (about 4 cups)
• Salt, to taste
• 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 large onion, chopped (about 1.5 cups)
• 1 bell pepper, diced (about 1 cup)
• 2 medium zucchini, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 2 cups)
• 3 large tomatoes, chopped (about 2 cups)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme

Instructions

1. Sprinkle the eggplant cubes with salt, place in a colander, and let stand for about 20 minutes. Rinse well, then pat dry with paper towels.

2. Heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil over medium heat in a large non-stick skillet. Add the eggplant. Cook, stirring often, until golden and tender, about 10 minutes. Remove the eggplant from the pan and set aside.

3. Add 2 more tablespoons of olive oil to the pan. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring often, until tender, about 8 minutes.

4. Add the remaining olive oil to the pan. Stir in the zucchini. Cook, stirring often, until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.

5. Stir in the tomatoes, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring often, until the tomatoes have started to break down, about 5 minutes.

6. Stir in the cooked eggplant, basil, and thyme. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes. Stir every now and then; add a little water if needed.

7. Taste and adjust the seasonings. Serve the ratatouille hot, warm, or cold. Enjoy!

Wine Pairing

Pair this rustic French dish with a crisp and vibrant Provence Rosé—a match made in heaven that will transport you straight to the sunny landscapes of southern France.