Le Stanze Bistrot Cafe – Ratatouille is a vibrant and heartwarming vegetable dish that originated in the South of France. This baked medley of zucchini, eggplant, tomato, and bell pepper is not only healthy but also bursting with Mediterranean flavor. At Le Stanze Bistrot Cafe, we bring this classic to life with a rustic twist, perfect for sharing with family or friends. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy evening, this Ratatouille recipe is a wonderful vegetarian option that is both elegant and comforting.
Below is a step-by-step guide to preparing Ratatouille for 6–8 servings, complete with a rich herb-infused sauce and oven-baked perfection.
| Ingredients | Quantity/Notes |
|---|---|
| Zucchini | 1 piece |
| Eggplants | 2 pieces |
| Tomatoes | 6 pieces |
| Red bell pepper | 1 piece |
| Onion (Bombay type) | 1 piece |
| Garlic cloves | 6 cloves |
| Italian herbs | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh rosemary (or dried rosemary) | 1 teaspoon (we used dried rosemary) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Mushroom stock powder | ½ to 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste) |
| Olive oil (or Virgin Coconut Oil/VCO) | As needed for brushing |
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Wash all the vegetables thoroughly. Bring water to a boil and blanch the tomatoes briefly to loosen their skin. Peel the tomatoes once cooled. |
| 2 | Slice the zucchini, eggplants, and tomatoes into even rounds, about 3 mm thick. Chop the bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Reserve about ¼ of the vegetable mix for the sauce. |
| 3 | In a pan, heat a little oil. Sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant. Add the reserved vegetables for the sauce. Season with Italian herbs, rosemary, salt, and mushroom stock. Cook until softened. |
| 4 | Blend the cooked vegetables into a smooth sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Pour the sauce into your baking dish, filling about ⅓ of its height. Arrange the sliced vegetables on top in alternating layers. |
| 5 | Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F), using both top and bottom heat. Brush the arranged vegetables with olive oil or VCO. Sprinkle more herbs and rosemary on top. Bake for 50 minutes. |
| 6 | Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool to room temperature before serving. |
Ratatouille is best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It pairs excellently with crusty bread, rice, or even pasta. You can serve it as a main vegetarian dish or as a vibrant side.
At Le Stanze Bistrot Cafe, we believe in dishes that celebrate the natural flavors of fresh ingredients. Our Ratatouille brings the essence of Provence to your plate—simple, soulful, and lovingly prepared. Whether you’re a fan of classic European cuisine or new to Mediterranean dishes, this Ratatouille is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
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