Recipe French Ratatouille

Ratatouille is a classic French dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of summer vegetables. Originating from Provence, this vegetable medley is both hearty and healthy, making it a delightful addition to any meal. The combination of roasted vegetables in a rich tomato sauce creates a comforting and flavorful dish. Here’s a simple recipe to make this rustic and beloved French classic at home.

Ingredients

• Eggplants: 2 medium (600 grams)
• Zucchinis: 2 medium (600 grams)
• Tomatoes: 1 kilogram
• Onions: 2 medium
• Sweet bell peppers: 3-4
• Garlic: 4 cloves
• Olive oil: for drizzling
• Ground paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Dried Provençal herbs: to taste
• Fresh basil: for garnish (optional)
• Salt: to taste

Method

1. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
   • Finely chop the onions and sauté them in a small amount of olive oil until softened. Add a pinch of salt.
   • Dice 3 peeled tomatoes and the bell peppers, then add them to the onions. Cook for about 10 minutes.
   • Blend the mixture with an immersion blender until smooth. Spread this tomato sauce evenly on the bottom of your baking dish.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
   • Peel the eggplants and zucchinis. Slice them, along with the remaining tomatoes, into 5 mm thick rounds.
   • Arrange the vegetable slices alternately on top of the tomato sauce in the baking dish. Season with salt.
3. Season and Bake:
   • Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables. Sprinkle with minced garlic, ground paprika, and dried Provençal herbs.
   • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes.
   • After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized.
4. Garnish and Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh basil if desired and serve warm.

Enjoy your homemade ratatouille, a delicious taste of French culinary tradition!