Here's a classic Ratatouille recipe for you! 🇫🇷🥒🍅

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1 eggplant (aubergine)
• 1 zucchini (courgette)
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 yellow bell pepper
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 4 ripe tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh basil (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables:

   • Dice the eggplant and zucchini into small cubes.
   • Chop the bell peppers into strips.
   • Finely slice the onion and mince the garlic.
   • If using fresh tomatoes, peel and chop them into small pieces.

2. Cook the base:

   • In a large pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
   • Sauté the onion and garlic until they become soft and fragrant (about 5 minutes).

3. Add the vegetables:

   • Add the bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes.
   • Stir in the eggplant and zucchini, adding a little more oil if needed. Cook for 10 minutes.

4. Simmer:

   • Add the chopped tomatoes, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
   • Stir well and let simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Finish and serve:

   • Once the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened, remove the bay leaf.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning.
   • Garnish with fresh basil and drizzle with a little olive oil before serving.

Serving Suggestions

✔ Serve warm or at room temperature.
✔ Pair with grilled chicken, fish, or a slice of rustic bread.
✔ Use as a topping for pasta or rice.

Bon appétit! 😋🍽️ Let me know if you want variations (e.g., oven-baked ratatouille).