French inspired Ratatouille

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees celcius
2. In a frying pan, over a medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and cook the onions until translucent.
3. Add the chopped tomatoes and chopped garlic and simmer for 15 minutes before placing aside
4. Saute the cpepper in another splash of oil over a medium heat for 3-4 minutes
5. Combine the cooked ingredients into one pan and add the bouquet garni
6. Saute the courgettes and add to the tomato mixture
7. Saute the aubergine in oil, then add to the tomato mixture
8. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Lower the heat to a simmer, stirring often and cook until it takes on the form of a stew
9. Before serving. Remove the bouquet garni.
10. Add the chopped basil and check the seasoning.

Tips from the author

Use your favourite seasonal vegetables. Options including squash, potato and/or pumpkin would also work well. 

Bouquet garni is a selection of herbs tied together and is used to season a dish while cooking. It is available in the spice aisle of most supermarkets, but you can also make your own. Gather celery leaves, thyme, a bay leaf and parsley or basil stalks. Wrap within the green part of a leek and tie together with string.

This dish is best served with fresh basil or mint over the top as a garnish, and alongside a salad and crusty bread.