Go Back

Ultimate Ratatouille Recipe

Fareeha
Servings 8
Calories 130 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Eggplant: 2 large
  • Zucchini: 4 medium
  • Green Chili: 2
  • Tomatoes: 8 medium
  • Garlic: 8 cloves minced
  • Olive Oil: 1/2 cup
  • Fresh Herbs thyme, basil, parsley: 2 tablespoons each, chopped
  • Salt and Pepper: to taste

Instructions
 

  • Washing and Chopping Vegetables:Rinse the eggplants, zucchinis, bell peppers, and tomatoes thoroughly under cold water.
  • Cut the eggplants, green chili and zucchinis into thin rounds, about 1/4-inch thick.
  • Slice the tomatoes into thin rounds.
  • Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
  • Prepping Herbs and Garlic:Rinse the fresh herbs (thyme, basil, parsley) and pat them dry with a paper towel.
  • Remove the leaves from the stems and chop them finely.
  • Set aside the minced garlic and chopped herbs.
  • Sautéing Garlic:Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  • Adding and Layering Vegetables:Add the bell peppers to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften.
  • Layer the eggplant, zucchini, and tomato slices alternately in the skillet, arranging them in a spiral or in rows, depending on your preference.
  • Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of olive oil over the layered vegetables.
  • Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs, salt, and pepper evenly over the vegetables.
  • Simmering and Finishing the Dish:Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the vegetables simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and have released their juices.
  • Occasionally check the dish to ensure it’s not sticking to the bottom, and gently stir if necessary.
  • Remove the lid for the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and concentrate the flavors.

Notes

Achieving the Perfect Texture:

  • Ensure even slicing of vegetables for uniform cooking.
  • Avoid overcooking to maintain a slight bite in the vegetables.
  • Let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow flavors to meld together.
  • Alternative Cooking Methods:

  • Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Layer the vegetables and herbs in an oven-safe dish. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 45-50 minutes until tender.
  • Grilling: Grill the vegetables separately until they are slightly charred and tender, then layer them in a dish with the garlic and herbs.