Classic Ratatouille Recipe

"Transport yourself to the sun-kissed fields of Provence with our Classic Ratatouille Recipe, a vibrant and flavorful stew that embodies the essence of French country cooking. This iconic dish from Nice weaves together tender eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes in a rich and aromatic broth, infused with the warmth of garlic, herbs, and olive oil. Perfect for a summer evening or a cozy night in, Ratatouille is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor, celebrating the beauty of seasonal ingredients and the joy of slow-cooked comfort food."

Ingredients:

- 2 large eggplants, cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) cubes (400g)

- 2 large zucchinis, cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) cubes (400g)

- 2 large bell peppers, cut into 1-inch (2.5cm) cubes (400g)

- 1 large onion, chopped (200g)

- 5 garlic cloves, minced (25g)

- 1 cup tomato puree (250ml)

- 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (400g)

- 2 tbsp olive oil (30ml)

- Salt and pepper, to taste

- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.

2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.

4. Add eggplant, zucchinis, and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender, about 20-25 minutes.

5. Add tomato puree, chopped tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.

Note: You can also make Ratatouille in a slow cooker. Brown the vegetables in a skillet, then transfer to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Enjoy!

Here is an approximate calorie chart for a serving of Ratatouille (assuming 6-8 servings total):

Per serving:

- Calories: 150-180

- Protein: 4-5g

    - Vegetables: 3-4g

- Fat: 7-9g

    - Olive oil: 5-6g

    - Vegetables: 2-3g

- Carbohydrates: 20-25g

    - Vegetables: 15-20g

    - Tomato puree and chopped tomatoes: 5-7g

- Fiber: 6-8g

- Cholesterol: 0mg

- Sodium: 200-300mg

- Sugar: 10-12g

Vitamins and Minerals:

- Vitamin C: 50-60% of the Daily Value (DV)

- Vitamin K: 25-30% of the DV

- Potassium: 20-25% of the DV

- Manganese: 15-20% of the DV

Please note that this is an estimate, as exact values depend on specific ingredient brands and measurements. Additionally, Ratatouille can vary in ingredients and portion sizes, affecting calorie counts. This chart serves as an approximate guide.

Keep in mind that Ratatouille is a relatively low-calorie and nutrient-dense dish, with a balanced mix of macronutrients and essential vitamins and minerals. Enjoy!