32

min
  • lunch

Reinforcement Ratatouille

Ratatouille, a dish celebrated for its vibrant colors and rich flavor, has been a staple in French cuisine for centuries. Our Reinforcement Ratatouille, however, takes this classic to a whole new level. Infused with a blend of unique spices and slow-cooked to perfection, this hearty vegetable stew is perfect as a lunch option or a comforting dinner.

  • SERVES
    4-6 people
  • PREP TIME
    30 minutes
  • Cook TIME
    2 hours
Ingredients
  • 1 eggplant
  • 1 zucchini
  • 1 yellow squash
  • 1 red bell pepper
  • 1 yellow bell pepper
  • 2 tomatoes
  • 1 onion
  • 4 cloves of garlic
  • 1 can of diced tomatoes
  • 1 bunch fresh basil
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
Directions
  1. Begin by washing and cutting all the vegetables into equal sizes. This ensures that they all cook evenly.
  2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until they become translucent.
  3. Add the eggplant, zucchini, and squash to the pot and cook for about 10 minutes or until they start to soften.
  4. Next, add the bell peppers, tomatoes, and can of diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Stir well.
  6. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom.
  7. Just before serving, stir in the fresh basil for an added touch of freshness.

Ratatouille, at its core, is a humble dish. Originating from Nice, France, it was a simple, cost-effective way for farmers to use up their summer vegetables. However, the Reinforcement Ratatouille is no ordinary ratatouille. It's a dish inspired by the philosophy of Iron Chef, a belief in pushing culinary boundaries and creating unique, unforgettable flavors.

The inspiration behind our Reinforcement Ratatouille comes from the desire to elevate an everyday dish into a gourmet dining experience. We wanted a dish that was not only comforting and nutritious but also packed with flavor. The addition of smoked paprika and cayenne pepper, while not traditional in a classic ratatouille, give the dish a unique twist, infusing it with a subtle smokiness and a kick of heat.

What sets the Reinforcement Ratatouille apart is not only its unique blend of spices but also its cooking method. Ratatouille is usually cooked quickly over high heat, but we chose to slow cook ours. This method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a dish that is rich, hearty, and incredibly flavorful. The result is a ratatouille that is both familiar and innovative, a dish that is truly a testament to the spirit of Iron Chef.

lunch