Ratatouille with Rice

French vegetable stew with zucchini, eggplant, and peppers, served with rice.

Ratatouille with Rice:

Ratatouille is a classic French Provençal dish made with slow-cooked vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes. It’s hearty, flavorful, and naturally vegan, making it a perfect comfort food. Served over fluffy rice, this dish becomes a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s packed with nutrients and Mediterranean flavors.

Ingredients:

For the Ratatouille:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, chopped
• 1 eggplant, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or 3 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

For the Rice:

• 1 cup white or brown rice
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• ½ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Cook the Rice:
   • In a pot, bring water (or broth) to a boil.
   • Stir in rice and salt, reduce heat, cover, and simmer until tender (about 15 minutes for white rice, 40 minutes for brown rice). Fluff with a fork.
2. Prepare the Ratatouille:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
   • Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
   • Add eggplant and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
   • Add zucchini and bell peppers, cooking for another 5 minutes.
   • Stir in tomatoes, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Cover and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
3. Serve:
   • Spoon warm ratatouille over a bed of rice.
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Enjoy this simple, hearty, and healthy dish!

Tips for the Best Ratatouille with Rice

• Use Fresh, Seasonal Vegetables – The best ratatouille comes from ripe, fresh produce for maximum flavor.
• Cook Vegetables in Layers – Sauté each vegetable separately before combining to ensure they keep their texture and don’t turn mushy.
• Simmer Slowly for Depth of Flavor – Let the ratatouille simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add Fresh Herbs at the End – Stir in fresh basil or thyme just before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Pair with the Right Rice – Serve with fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a nutritious base.

Enjoy your meal!