Authentic Majorcan Tumbet: A Traditional Spanish Vegetable Dish Recipe

Ingredients

1 kg potatoes
1 large eggplant
1 large red bell pepper
3 medium tomatoes
3 cloves of garlic
1 large onion
1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
Freshly ground black pepper
Salt to taste
Extra virgin olive oil

Steps and instructions

Peel the potatoes and cut them into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick.
Heat some olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the potatoes and cook until they are golden brown. Remove the potatoes from the pan and set aside.
Cut the eggplant into thin slices and the bell pepper into strips. In the same pan, add more oil if needed, then add the eggplant and bell pepper. Cook until they are soft and slightly caramelized. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Chop the tomatoes, garlic, and onion. In the same pan, add more oil if needed, then add the garlic and onion. Cook until the onion is translucent. Add the tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the tomatoes break down and the mixture becomes a sauce.
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a large baking dish, layer the potatoes, followed by the eggplant and bell pepper. Pour the tomato sauce over the top.
Bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the vegetables are tender. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Peeler - To peel the potatoes
Knife - For slicing the potatoes, eggplant, and bell pepper
Frying pan - To cook the potatoes, eggplant, and bell pepper
Baking dish - To bake the tumbet in the oven
Spatula - For flipping and removing the vegetables from the pan
Cutting board - To safely chop the vegetables
Oven - To bake the tumbet
Measuring spoons - To measure the spices accurately

Recipe variations

Add a layer of sliced zucchini between the potatoes and eggplant.
Sprinkle grated cheese, such as mozzarella or Parmesan, on top before baking.
Include sliced mushrooms in the vegetable layers.
For a meat version, add cooked ground meat, such as beef or lamb, between the layers.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as oregano, thyme, or smoked paprika, to enhance the flavors.
Replace the regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a twist.
Make it vegan by omitting the eggs and cheese, and using a vegan-friendly sauce.
Try grilling the vegetables instead of frying them for a slightly different flavor.
Add a layer of thinly sliced cheese, like mozzarella or provolone, on top of each vegetable layer.
For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice crackers.

Recipe overview

Tumbet is a traditional dish from the island of Mallorca, Spain. It's a delicious and nutritious meal made with layers of fried potatoes, eggplant, and bell peppers, all covered in a rich tomato and garlic sauce. Baked to perfection, this dish is full of vibrant colors and flavors that will transport you to the Mediterranean with every bite. Easy to prepare, Tumbet is a fantastic option for a hearty lunch or dinner. It's also vegan-friendly, making it a wonderful choice for those following a plant-based diet. Enjoy the process of preparing this Spanish classic and savor the exquisite blend of ingredients in this delightful meal.

Common questions

Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! Tumbet is a versatile dish, and you can use other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even artichoke hearts. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make Tumbet in advance? Yes, you can make Tumbet in advance. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Is Tumbet vegetarian/vegan? By default, Tumbet is vegetarian, but it can easily be made vegan by omitting the eggplant or using a vegan alternative for the tomato sauce.
Can I freeze Tumbet? While it is possible to freeze Tumbet, the texture of the vegetables may change after being frozen and thawed. It is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do freeze it, make sure to thaw it completely before reheating.
What can I serve with Tumbet? Tumbet is often served as a main course on its own, but you can also serve it as a side dish with grilled meats or fish. It pairs well with a crusty bread or a side of rice.

Serving dishes and utensils

Baking dish - A large dish used for baking the Tumbet in the oven.
Frying pan - A large pan used for cooking the potatoes, eggplant, bell pepper, and sauce.
Knife - Used for peeling and chopping the vegetables.
Cutting board - Provides a surface for safely cutting and preparing the vegetables.
Oven - Used to bake the Tumbet until it is golden and the vegetables are tender.
Serving spoon - Used for serving portions of Tumbet onto plates.
Serving dish - A dish or platter used for presenting and serving the Tumbet.

Origin stories

Tumbet is a traditional dish from the Balearic Islands in Spain, specifically from the island of Mallorca. It's a testament to the island's agricultural bounty and the ingenuity of its people. Mallorcans invented this dish as a way to utilize the island's abundance of fresh vegetables during the summer months. Tumbet is often likened to a Spanish version of ratatouille, and like its French cousin, it beautifully showcases the simple, rustic appeal of Mediterranean cuisine. In the old days, it was prepared in a "greixonera", a typical Mallorcan earthenware pot, and was often eaten cold, making it a perfect meal for the hot summer months.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.