Smoky Eggplant Stew: 11 Tomato-Braised Classics

Ratatouille: A French Vegetable Medley

easy summer vegetable stew

Ratatouille is a classic French vegetable medley that combines the flavors of summer vegetables into a hearty and wholesome dish.

Ideal for a light lunch or as a side for dinner, this stew takes about 45 minutes to prepare, with a difficulty level of easy.

Perfect for both novice and experienced cooks, creating this colorful dish not only satisfies the palate but also presents beautifully on any table.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium eggplant, diced
  • 2 zucchinis, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cups ripe tomatoes, diced (or one can of diced tomatoes)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Optional: Crusty bread for serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant (about 3-4 minutes).
  2. Stir in the diced eggplant and bell pepper, and sauté for another 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
  3. Add the sliced zucchini and diced tomatoes (with juices), along with thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
  4. Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and let the stew simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, optionally with crusty bread on the side. Enjoy your delicious Ratatouille!
Sale
Fullstar The Original Pro Chopper - Vegetable Chopper and Spiralizer, Food Chopper with Container,...
  • The Original Pro Chopper - Our superstar veggie slicer has been creating waves on TikTok! Simple to use,...
  • Easy Meal Prep with Rust-Resistant Blades - Our vegetable chopper is perfect for anyone who wants to eat...
  • 5-Star Design - The soft-grip TPU handle ensures controlled chopping, while the non-skid rubber base...

Caponata: Sicilian Eggplant Dish

sicilian eggplant vegetable stew

Caponata is a traditional Sicilian eggplant dish that offers a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making it a perfect appetizer or side dish.

This vibrant vegetable stew takes approximately 1 hour to prepare and has a difficulty level of moderate. With its tangy, rich taste and crispy textures, Caponata is sure to impress your family and friends.

Ingredients:

  • 1 medium eggplant, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1/4 cup olives (green or black), pitted and chopped
  • 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed and drained
  • 1/4 cup raisins
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).
  2. Stir in the diced eggplant and bell pepper, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
  3. Add the diced tomatoes, olives, capers, raisins, red wine vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
  4. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally until the caponata thickens and flavors meld together.
  5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh basil before serving, either warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your delicious Caponata!

Geedel Rotary Cheese Grater, Kitchen Mandoline Vegetable Slicer with 3 Interchangeable Blades, Easy...
  • Makes Everything Simple : Just forget your bagged cheese! Only turn the handle for several times and get...
  • Premium Material : All parts of the rotary cheese grater are made of food grade ABS material, no BPA. The...
  • Three Option Grater : The parmesan cheese grater finishes food preparation with slicing, shredding and...

Eggplant Parmesan: A Cheesy Delight

cheesy italian eggplant dish

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that layers breaded and fried eggplant slices with marinara sauce and plenty of melted cheese, creating a comforting and hearty entrée.

This delightful dish takes about 1 hour to prepare, with a moderate difficulty level, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • Salt, for sweating the eggplant
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
  • Olive oil, for frying

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
  3. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. Dredge each eggplant slice first in flour, then dip in the egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Set aside on a plate.
  5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  6. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the fried eggplant, followed by half of the remaining marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
  7. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Eggplant Parmesan!
Chef Preserve Compact Vacuum Sealer for Food (Vacuum Sealer Machine + 30 Reusable Vacuum Bags)...
  • 💰 REDUCE WASTE AND SAVE MONEY: Chef Preserve keeps FOOD FRESH 5 TIMES LONGER than non-vacuum storage...
  • ✅ POWERFUL, QUICK & EASY TO USE: Simply press the button to start. The device vacuum seals a bag in 5...
  • ♻️ REUSABLE & RESEALABLE BAGS: Chef Preserve comes with dishwasher, freezer, refrigerator, and...

Shakshuka: Eggs Poached in Spicy Tomato Sauce

spicy poached eggs dish

Shakshuka is a flavorful North African and Middle Eastern dish consisting of eggs poached in a spicy tomato sauce, often infused with peppers and spices.

This hearty meal can be enjoyed at breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, and takes approximately 30 minutes to prepare, making it a relatively easy dish to master.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4-6 large eggs
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
  • Crumbled feta cheese, for topping (optional)
  • Crusty bread, for serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
  4. Create small wells in the sauce and crack an egg into each well. Cover the skillet and cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your desired doneness.
  5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley, and feta cheese if desired. Serve warm alongside crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Shakshuka!
Sale
Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel (SCV700-S-BR), Versatile Cookware for...
  • Generous Capacity: 7-quart slow cooker that comfortably serves 9+ people or fits a 7-pound roast
  • Cooking Flexibility: High or low slow cooking settings, with convenient warm function for ideal serving...
  • Convenient: Set it and forget it feature enables you to cook while at work or performing daily tasks

Pisto: Spanish Ratatouille

spanish ratatouille with vegetables

Pisto is a traditional Spanish ratatouille, a vibrant and rustic dish brimming with seasonal vegetables, including tomatoes, zucchini, and peppers.

Often accompanied by a fried egg on top, this dish is hearty, healthy, and perfect for any meal. The preparation takes about 30 minutes and requires a moderate level of cooking skill.

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 large eggs (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
  • Crusty bread, for serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, cooking until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  2. Stir in the red and green bell peppers and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, until they begin to soften.
  3. Add the diced zucchini and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  4. Add the chopped tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer the mixture for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld together.
  5. If desired, fry the eggs in a separate pan. Serve the pisto warm, topped with a fried egg and garnished with fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread on the side.
Sale
Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers BPA Free Airtight Lids Ideal for Lunch Meal Prep &...
  • 100% Leak-proof: Guaranteed no-spill seal and secure latches
  • Crystal-clear Tritan Built: Stain-resistant and odor-resistant material for a clear view of contents
  • Lightweight & Sturdy: Easy to carry, yet durable for everyday use

Turkish Imam Bayıldı: Stuffed Eggplant

stuffed eggplants turkish classic

Imam Bayıldı is a classic Turkish dish featuring eggplants that are halved and stuffed with a savory mixture of onions, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs. This dish is traditionally served at room temperature and is perfect as a main or side dish. Preparation takes about 45 minutes, with a moderate level of cooking skill required.

Ingredients:

  • 4 medium eggplants
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 ripe tomatoes, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the eggplants in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh to create a cavity, leaving a small border.
  2. In a skillet, heat half of the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until soft and translucent, about 7-8 minutes.
  3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the mixture for an additional 5-10 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
  4. Remove the skillet from heat and fill the eggplant halves with the tomato and onion mixture.
  5. Place the stuffed eggplants in a baking dish and drizzle the remaining olive oil over them. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 30-35 minutes, until the eggplants are tender.
  6. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy!
Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale, Digital Grams and Ounces for Weight Loss, Baking, Cooking, Keto and...
  • 𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗪𝗲𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴: Supports 5 units...
  • 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀: Accurately weighs up to 11 lb/5 kg with 1 g...
  • 𝗦𝗶𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲 & 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗮𝗰𝘁: The small and sleek scale is a perfect fit for...

Zucchini and Eggplant Tomato Bake

hearty vegetarian bake recipe

Zucchini and Eggplant Tomato Bake is a delicious and hearty vegetarian dish that’s perfect for a family meal or a potluck. This bake combines the rich flavors of zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes, making it a savory delight. Preparation takes about 20 minutes, and the cooking time is around 45 minutes, with an easy level of cooking skill required.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced
  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
  • 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped (or one 28 oz can of diced tomatoes)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup grated cheese (mozzarella or parmesan)
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped tomatoes to the skillet, along with dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.
  4. In a baking dish, layer half of the eggplant slices, followed by half of the zucchini slices. Pour half of the tomato mixture over the vegetables, then sprinkle with half of the cheese.
  5. Repeat the layers with the remaining eggplant, zucchini, tomato mixture, and top with the remaining cheese.
  6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy your Zucchini and Eggplant Tomato Bake!
Sale
Alpha Grillers Meat Thermometer Digital - Instant Read Food Thermometer for Cooking and Grilling...
  • Instant Read Food Thermometer | Our instant read thermometer features a temperature probe and advanced,...
  • Multi-Use | From bbq thermometer to baking thermometer, our digital food thermometer for cooking is...
  • Easy-Read Digital Thermometer For Cooking | Large instant thermometer dial with bright blue backlight...

Chakhokhbili: Georgian Chicken Stew

comforting aromatic chicken stew

Chakhokhbili is a traditional Georgian chicken stew that is aromatic and richly flavored, making it a comforting dish full of depth.

With preparation time of about 15 minutes and a cooking time of approximately 1 hour, this dish is moderately easy to prepare, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces
  • 2 medium onions, chopped
  • 4 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or one 14 oz can of diced tomatoes)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Steps:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the chopped onions.

Sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides, about 10-15 minutes.

3. Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, thyme, paprika, and ground coriander, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add the chopped tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.

Stir to combine, then cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh parsley for added flavor.

6. Serve hot, allowing the rich flavors to shine. Enjoy your Chakhokhbili!

Sale
Home Hero 54-Piece Stainless Steel Kitchen Utensils Set - Heat-Resistant Nonstick Silicone &...
  • Versatile 54-Piece Collection: Elevate your kitchen with the Home Hero 54-Piece Kitchen Utensil Set, a...
  • Durable and Long-Lasting: Crafted from premium stainless steel, these kitchen utensils are designed to...
  • Perfect Holiday Gift: Delight your loved ones with this kitchen utensils gift set this festive season....

Moussaka: Greek Comfort Food

greek layered meat dish

Moussaka is a beloved Greek comfort food that layers savory ground meat with tender eggplant and creamy béchamel sauce, creating a deliciously hearty dish.

With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a cooking time of approximately 1 hour, it embodies moderate complexity, making it a great choice for gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 1 lb ground beef or lamb
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup olive oil (for frying)
  • 3 cups milk
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Rinse and pat dry.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess oil.
  4. In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary, then sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft. Add the ground meat and cook until browned.
  5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 15 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  6. In a saucepan, heat the milk. In a separate bowl, whisk flour and 1/4 cup of the hot milk until smooth. Gradually stir in the rest of the milk, then cook over medium heat while stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the cheese, beaten eggs, and nutmeg.
  7. Layer half of the eggplant on the bottom of a baking dish, followed by the meat mixture, and then the remaining eggplant. Pour the béchamel sauce over the top.
  8. Bake for 45 minutes until golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your Moussaka!
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle with Straw, BPA-Free Sports Water Bottle, Great...
  • 24-ounce insulated stainless-steel water bottle with a FreeSip spout and push-button lid with lock
  • Patented FreeSip spout designed for either sipping upright through the built-in straw or tilting back to...
  • Protective push-to-open lid keeps spout clean; convenient carry loop doubles as a lock

Egyptian Mulukhiyah: Spinach and Eggplant Stew

traditional middle eastern stew

Egyptian Mulukhiyah is a traditional Middle Eastern stew that combines the rich flavors of fresh mulukhiyah leaves (also known as jute leaves) with tender eggplant and aromatic spices.

This dish is commonly enjoyed with rice or bread and can be prepared in about 20 minutes with a cooking time of 30 minutes, making it a moderately easy option for a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb mulukhiyah leaves (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 large eggplant, diced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced eggplant to the pot and cook until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, add the mulukhiyah leaves, coriander, cumin, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes until the mulukhiyah is tender.
  6. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
  7. Serve hot with lemon wedges and enjoy your flavorful Egyptian Mulukhiyah!

Smoky Tomato and Eggplant Pasta

smoky hearty pasta dish

Smoky Tomato and Eggplant Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich smokiness of roasted eggplant with the bright acidity of tomatoes.

This delightful meal can be prepared in about 15 minutes with an additional cooking time of 25 minutes, making it a relatively easy and satisfying option for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz pasta (spaghetti or penne)
  • 1 large eggplant, diced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the diced eggplant on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 20 minutes until tender and caramelized.
  2. Meanwhile, boil a pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and cooked eggplant, simmering for about 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Combine the pasta with the sauce, tossing well to coat. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy your Smoky Tomato and Eggplant Pasta!

Amazon disclaimer.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Follow:
Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.