Provençal Vegetable Stew with Fresh Baked Rolls

Embark on a culinary journey to the French Mediterranean with our Provençal Vegetable Stew. This vibrant dish celebrates the bounty of the harvest with a symphony of colorful bell peppers, aubergine, courgette, and tomatoes. Infused with a melody of thyme, rosemary, and garlic, and served with freshly baked part-baked rolls, this vegetarian delight is elevated by the simplicity of its ingredients. Suitable for those with lactose intolerance and free from additives and fish, this meal is a true testament to the flavors of French cuisine. Let’s bring the flavors of Provence to your dinner table tonight!

Ingredients

• 1 aubergine, diced
• 1 red pepper, diced
• 1 yellow pepper, diced
• 1 green pepper, diced
• 1 courgette, sliced
• 1 lemon, juice and zest
• 3 tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tin of tomatoes (400g)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 part-baked bread rolls
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method

• Preheat your oven to 180°C. While the oven is heating, prepare your part-baked rolls as per the package instructions, usually for 10-12 minutes.
• In a large, deep pan, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
• Add the diced aubergine, red, yellow, and green peppers to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
• Incorporate the sliced courgette and chopped tomatoes. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
• Stir in the tin of tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let the stew simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Once the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined, remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice and zest.
• Serve the Provençal Vegetable Stew hot with the freshly baked rolls on the side.

Tips

• Ensure to let the stew simmer on low heat to meld the flavors together beautifully.
• For an extra touch, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving.
• Serve with a side of olive oil for dipping the bread rolls.

Nutritional Information