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Instructions
1. Prep the Vegetables
- Wash and dice all vegetables into uniform pieces for even cooking.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Vegetables
- Add the eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers to the skillet. Stir to coat them in the oil and cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Seasoning
- Stir in the tomatoes, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
5. Adjust the Seasoning
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
6. Serve and Garnish
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
How to Serve Ratatouille
Ratatouille is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken, fish, or steak.
- As a Main Course: Pair it with crusty bread or rice for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
- As a Pasta Sauce: Toss it with your favorite pasta for a quick, hearty dinner.
- As a Topping: Use it as a topping for toast, pizza, or baked potatoes.
Tips for the Best Ratatouille
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of your vegetables will make or break this dish. Opt for the freshest produce you can find.
- Don’t Overcook: The vegetables should be tender but not mushy. Keep an eye on the texture as it simmers.
- Experiment with Herbs: While thyme and oregano are classic, feel free to add rosemary, parsley, or even a pinch of chili flakes for a kick.
- Make Ahead: Ratatouille tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
A French Classic in Your Kitchen
Classic ratatouille is proof that humble ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. Its vibrant flavors, wholesome ingredients, and versatility make it a must-try recipe for any home cook.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a healthy, delicious meal for your family, this ratatouille recipe is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire. Bon appétit!
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