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Sicilian Caponata Delight

Cooking Method ,
Cuisine ,
Courses
Difficulty Intermediate
Best Season Suitable throughout the year
Description

Discover the rich and vibrant taste of Sicily with this classic Caponata recipe. Tender eggplant, savory olives, and tangy capers come together in a sweet and sour tomato sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Serve as a warm appetizer, a topping for bruschetta, or a delightful side dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Perfect for entertaining or adding a gourmet touch to your meals!

Ingredients
  • 2 large • eggplants, diced
  • 1 • onion, diced
  • 1 • celery stalk, diced
  • 2 • garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup • capers
  • 1/4 cup • green olives, pitted and chopped
  • 1/4 cup • raisins (optional)
  • 2 cups • tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
  • 1/4 cup • red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon • sugar
  • 1/4 cup • pine nuts (optional)
  • 1/4 cup • fresh basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup • olive oil
  • • Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
  1. Prepare the eggplant: Place the diced eggplant in a colander, sprinkle with salt, and let it sit for 20-30 minutes to release any bitter liquid. Rinse and pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Cook the eggplant: Heat half the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the eggplant and cook until golden and softened, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add tomatoes and seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes, capers, olives, raisins, vinegar, sugar, and pine nuts (if using). Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Combine and simmer: Add the cooked eggplant to the skillet and simmer everything together for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve: Stir in the fresh basil. Serve Caponata warm or at room temperature, with crusty bread or as a side dish. It can also be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day for an even deeper flavor.
Keywords: Sicilian, Eggplant, Mediterranean, Sweet and sour, Capers, Olives, Tomato stew, Italian cuisine, Vegan, Appetizer
Read it online: https://www.beveragetraining.com/recipe/sicilian-caponata-delight/