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Ratatouille, a beloved dish originating from the Provence region of France, is a colorful testament to the beauty of fresh vegetables and rustic cooking. Traditionally, this dish is a medley of summer vegetables that are slow-cooked to create a harmonious blend of flavors. The heart of ratatouille lies in its simplicity, where seasonal ingredients shine through in each bite, offering a taste of the Mediterranean sun.

Crockpot Eggplant Ratatouille

Discover the delightful flavors of Rustic Crockpot Eggplant Ratatouille, a simple yet nutritious dish inspired by classic French cuisine. This easy-to-follow recipe makes use of fresh, seasonal vegetables, allowing them to meld beautifully in the crockpot for a rich taste experience. With ingredients like eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and flavorful herbs, it's a wholesome vegetarian option perfect for family meals and gatherings. Enjoy the convenience of slow cooking while savoring a dish that brings the essence of Provence to your table.

Ingredients
  

1 large eggplant, diced into 1-inch cubes

2 medium zucchinis, sliced

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)

1/4 cup olive oil

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon thyme

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prep the Vegetables: Start by washing and cutting all the vegetables as indicated in the ingredients section. Make sure the eggplant cubes are salted and left to sit for around 15 minutes to reduce bitterness. Rinse and pat dry.

    Layer in the Crockpot: In a large crockpot, layer the vegetables. Start with the eggplant, followed by zucchinis, bell peppers, onion, and garlic.

      Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Pour the diced tomatoes (and their juice if using canned) over the layered vegetables. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper, and then drizzle the olive oil evenly over the mixture.

        Mix It Up: Using a large spoon, gently mix the vegetables and seasonings together until everything is well combined.

          Set the Crockpot: Cover the crockpot and set it to low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours. You want the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

            Final Touches: Once done, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you like a thicker consistency, feel free to leave the lid off for the last hour of cooking.

              Serve: Ladle the ratatouille into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve hot, warm, or even at room temperature alongside crusty bread or over pasta or rice.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 8 hours | 6 servings