Spiced Ratatouille

Description

This southern French dish is tough to pronounce (ra-tuh-TOO-ee) and even tougher to resist. Typically ratatouille combines eggplant, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, zucchini, garlic and herbs stewed together. This ratatouille is spiced with cinnamon, paprika and basil, among other seasonings.

• Source: American Institute Cancer Research
• Formatted by Chupa Babi in MC: 06.12.07
• Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

• 2 tsp sweet paprika
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground ginger
• 2 medium zucchini, ¾ lb, cut into ½-inch slices
• 1 small eggplant, ¾ lb, cut in 1-inch cubes (with or without peel)
• 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 large red onion, diced
• 2 – 3 large garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tsp dried basil
• salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Procedures

1. In a deep, medium skillet over medium heat, toast the paprika, cinnamon and ginger about 1 minute or until fragrant, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon.
2. Add the zucchini, eggplant, pepper, onion and garlic.
3. Pour in ¾ cup water.
4. Add the lemon juice.
5. Cover and bring the liquid to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat and simmer until the vegetables are tender, about 15 minutes.
7. Add the basil.
8. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
9. Cook until the eggplant is very soft and the stew is thick, about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
10. Remove the cover during cooking if there seems to be too much liquid.
11. Serve at room temperature or slightly chilled.
12. Store tightly covered in a refrigerator for 4 – 5 days.

Nutritional information

Per serving:

• 46 calories | 0g total fat (0g saturated fat) | 10g carbohydrate | 2g protein | 3g dietary fiber | 10mg sodium