Ragoût de courgettes is a comforting and flavorful dish made with zucchinis, slowly cooked with other vegetables and herbs. This rustic French stew highlights the natural sweetness and texture of courgettes, making it perfect as a side dish or a light main course. Here's a recipe for you:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium courgettes (zucchinis), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 ripe tomatoes, chopped (or a can of chopped tomatoes)
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 potato, peeled and diced (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions:
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Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and chop all the vegetables as described. Ensure that the courgettes are cut into even, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
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Cook the Base:
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add Vegetables:
- Stir in the chopped carrot, potato (if using), and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start softening.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they begin to break down, releasing their juices.
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Simmer the Ragoût:
- Add the courgettes to the pot along with the dried thyme, bay leaf, and vegetable broth or water. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Season and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf and season the ragoût with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the ragoût as a side dish with grilled meats, fish, or as a vegetarian main course with crusty bread or rice.
- For added richness, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta on top before serving.
Enjoy your ragoût de courgettes! It's a simple, yet deeply satisfying dish that captures the essence of summer vegetables.
