Eggplant Caponata

Recipe Author: From A Couple of Cooks

From A Couple of Cooks

Ingredients:

1 1/2 pounds eggplant (2 medium) (or squash!) 1 celery rib 1 medium red onion 1/2 bell pepper 3 garlic cloves 1/4 cup olive oil 14-ounce can crushed fire roasted tomatoes (or you can use your cherry tomatoes) 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon sugar 1 pinch red pepper flakes 2 tablespoons capers, drained 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 cup golden raisins – my addition Basil, for garnish Toasted pine nuts, for garnish (optional)

Preparation:

Cut the eggplant into small cubes, about 1/2 inch by 1/2 inch. Dice the celery. Slice the red onion. Dice the red bell pepper. Mince the garlic.

In a Dutch oven or large saute pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the eggplant, celery, red pepper and red onion and cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic and cook 3 to 5 minutes until the eggplant and onions are browned and softened. Add the crushed tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, sugar, red pepper flakes, capers, and salt. If using raisins, add them now. Cover and simmer on low for 10 minutes, stirring once, until very tender. Taste and add another pinch or two of salt. Serve warm, garnished with chopped basil and toasted pine nuts. Or, chill for up to 1 day and serve cold or at room temperature (the flavors taste even better after refrigerating).