Classic French Ratatouille: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 2 aubergines
  • 6 small courgettes
  • 2 red or yellow peppers
  • 4 ripe tomatoes
  • 1 onion
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 bunch of fresh basil
  • Olive oil
  • 1 can of plum tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 a lemon
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the aubergines and courgettes, then trim them and cut into slices. Remove the seeds from the peppers and chop them as well. Peel and chop the onion and garlic.
  2. Over a medium heat, put some olive oil in a large casserole dish or saucepan, add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until they turn soft and golden.
  3. Add the sliced aubergines, courgettes, and peppers to the pan. Stir them with the onion and garlic.
  4. While the vegetables are cooking, chop the tomatoes and add them to the pan. Mix them well with the other ingredients.
  5. Add the can of plum tomatoes to the pan, and use a spoon to break them up into smaller pieces.
  6. Add the balsamic vinegar and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well and reduce the heat. Cover the pan and simmer for around 30-35 minutes, until the vegetables are cooked and the sauce has thickened.
  7. Just before serving, tear the basil leaves and stir them into the ratatouille. Squeeze over the juice of half a lemon and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to give the ratatouille a heartier texture.
  • Include sliced mushrooms for an extra earthy flavor.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, oregano, or paprika to customize the taste.
  • Add a splash of red wine or vegetable broth for added depth of flavor.
  • For a meaty version, add cooked bacon, sausage, or chunks of chicken.
  • Make it spicy by adding chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Create a vegan version by omitting the cheese and using nutritional yeast as a substitute for a cheesy flavor.
  • Serve the ratatouille over cooked pasta or rice for a more substantial meal.
  • Top the ratatouille with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a tangy twist.
  • For a Mediterranean twist, add a handful of pitted olives and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

Recipe overview

This classic Ratatouille recipe is a staple of French cuisine. It's a simple, yet flavorful vegetable stew made primarily with aubergines, courgettes, peppers, and tomatoes, all simmered together with onion, garlic, and a handful of fresh basil. This dish is very versatile and can be enjoyed as a main course, a side dish, or even as a topping for crusty bread. It's full of vibrant colors, delicious flavors, and is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant dinner party. The process is straightforward - it requires some chopping and simmering, but the result is a wonderfully comforting dish that is also great for meal prep. Enjoy this Ratatouille with some warm bread, over rice or pasta, or as a complement to your main protein. The healthy and fresh ingredients make it a great choice for anyone looking for a hearty and healthy option.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to make ratatouille? - It takes approximately 30-35 minutes to cook the ratatouille once all the ingredients are prepared and added to the pan.
  2. Can I use different vegetables in ratatouille? - Yes, you can customize the recipe by adding or substituting different vegetables based on your preference. Some common variations include adding mushrooms, eggplants, or even potatoes.
  3. Can I make ratatouille ahead of time? - Yes, ratatouille can be made ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often improve when the dish is allowed to sit overnight. Simply reheat it before serving.
  4. Can I freeze ratatouille? - Yes, you can freeze ratatouille. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
  5. What can I serve ratatouille with? - Ratatouille can be served as a main dish on its own, or as a side dish alongside grilled meats, fish, or crusty bread. It can also be served over pasta or rice.
  6. Is ratatouille vegan/vegetarian? - Yes, ratatouille is both vegan and vegetarian, as it is made solely from vegetables and does not contain any animal products.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Cutting board - Use a sturdy cutting board to chop and prepare the vegetables.
  • Chef's knife - A sharp chef's knife is essential for cutting and slicing the vegetables.
  • Large casserole dish or saucepan - Use a large casserole dish or saucepan to cook the ratatouille.
  • Wooden spoon - A wooden spoon is useful for stirring and mixing the ingredients while cooking.
  • Serving platter - Transfer the cooked ratatouille onto a serving platter for presentation.

Origin stories

Ratatouille hails from the sun-drenched shores of Provence, a region in the southeast of France known for its lavender fields, vineyards, and olive groves. The name Ratatouille comes from the French verb 'touiller', which means to toss food. Traditionally, each vegetable in Ratatouille is cooked separately before being combined and simmered to meld the flavors. Interestingly, the Pixar movie "Ratatouille" did much to popularize this humble dish internationally. The film's creators even consulted with world-renowned chefs to ensure the animated ratatouille was as close to the real thing as possible, resulting in a new version of the dish known as confit byaldi. Today, Ratatouille remains a beloved symbol of Provencal cuisine, a testament to the flavors of the Mediterranean and the bountiful produce of the French countryside.

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.