What You’ll Need:
- 2 large eggplants
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon capers, rinsed
- 1/3 cup green olives, pitted and halved
- 1/3 cup golden raisins
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Start by washing the eggplants and cutting them into bite-sized cubes. Sprinkle them with salt and let them sit for 20 minutes to remove any bitterness. Rinse the eggplants and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large frying pan, heat enough olive oil to cover the bottom. Fry the eggplant cubes until golden brown and set them aside on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
3. In the same pan, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion, celery, and red bell pepper until they are softened and slightly caramelized.
4. Add the tomato sauce, red wine vinegar, sugar, capers, olives, and golden raisins to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Finally, add the fried eggplant cubes to the pan, gently folding them into the sauce. Reduce the heat and let the Caponata simmer for an additional 15 minutes, ensuring all the flavors are well incorporated.
6. Remove the Caponata from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. This dish is best served chilled or at room temperature, allowing the flavors to further develop over time.
Serving Suggestions:
– Caponata can be served as a starter, alongside crusty bread or toasted crostinis.
– It also makes an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats or fish.
– For a vegetarian option, serve Caponata over a bed of couscous or quinoa.
Now that you have mastered the art of making authentic Sicilian Caponata, bring the flavors of Sicily into your home with this traditional recipe. From its sweet and tangy taste to its vibrant colors, Caponata is a true taste of Sicily that can be enjoyed all year round. Buon appetito!