WHY MAKE THIS RECIPE
Ratatouille in the Cookeo is a fantastic dish that celebrates the flavors of fresh vegetables. It is a traditional French recipe that is not only healthy but also very easy to prepare. Using the Cookeo makes the process quick and hassle-free. You can enjoy a warm bowl of ratatouille on busy nights without spending hours in the kitchen. This dish is perfect for vegetarians, and it can be a wholesome side or main course. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have in your fridge.
HOW TO MAKE Ratatouille
Ingredients:
- 450 g zucchini
- 450 g eggplant
- 3 red bell peppers
- 4 tomatoes
- 3 onions
- 3 cloves garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 100 ml water
- Salt and pepper
- Herbs of your choice: basil, herbes de Provence, or bouquet garni
DIRECTIONS:
- Start by washing and chopping 450 g of zucchini, 450 g of eggplant, 3 red bell peppers, 4 tomatoes, 3 onions, and 3 cloves of garlic into small cubes.
- Turn on the Cookeo and select the "browning" mode. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and let it heat up a little.
- Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté them until they become soft and translucent.
- Next, add the rest of the chopped vegetables, mixing them well with the onions in the pot.
- Pour in 100 ml of water, then season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Add your chosen herbs to give it that lovely aromatic flavor.
- Close the lid of the Cookeo and launch the pressure cooking for 10 minutes.
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully release the pressure and serve your ratatouille hot. You can enjoy it on its own or with a side dish of your choice.
HOW TO SERVE Ratatouille
Ratatouille can be served in many ways. You can have it hot as a main dish, maybe paired with rice, couscous, or crusty bread. It also works great as a side dish next to grilled meats or fish. For a lighter meal, consider serving it over a salad or on a bed of quinoa. You can also top it with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for added flavor. Leftovers can be reheated and enjoyed the next day, making it a versatile option for meals throughout the week.
HOW TO STORE Ratatouille
Storing ratatouille is simple. After it has cooled down, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three to four days. If you want to store it for a longer time, consider freezing it. Place the ratatouille in a freezer-safe container or bag and store it in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
TIPS TO MAKE Ratatouille
- Choose Fresh Vegetables: The better the quality of your vegetables, the better your ratatouille will taste. Look for ripe, firm produce.
- Don’t Rush the Browning: Taking your time to brown the onions and soften the vegetables is key to developing deep flavors.
- Adjust the Herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs. If you don’t have basil or herbes de Provence, you can use thyme or oregano.
- Customizable Recipe: Ratatouille is versatile. Add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with bread, polenta, or pasta for a more filling meal.
VARIATIONS
There are many ways to make ratatouille unique to your taste. You could try adding some protein, such as chickpeas or lentils, to make it a heartier dish. For a bit of spiciness, consider adding red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in some cream or a dairy-free alternative once the cooking is complete. For a different twist, you could add olives or capers for a briny flavor, or even toss in some cheese, like goat cheese or mozzarella, at the end for a delightful creamy finish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen vegetables for ratatouille?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in a pinch. Just make sure to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time, as frozen vegetables may need longer to cook thoroughly.
2. Is ratatouille served hot or cold?
Ratatouille is traditionally served hot, but it can also be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. It makes a great dish for picnics or potlucks when served cold.
3. Can I make ratatouille ahead of time?
Absolutely! Ratatouille stores well in the refrigerator and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for meal prepping or making ahead for a family gathering.
Ratatouille
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and chop the zucchini, eggplant, red bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic into small cubes.
- Turn on the Cookeo and select the 'browning' mode. Add olive oil and let it heat.
- Add the chopped onions to the pot and sauté until soft and translucent.
- Add the remaining chopped vegetables to the pot, mixing well with the onions.
- Pour in water, then season with salt and pepper. Add chosen herbs.
- Close the lid of the Cookeo and start pressure cooking for 10 minutes.
- Once cooking is complete, carefully release the pressure and serve your ratatouille hot.