Italian Vegetable Stew (Ciambotta)

Ingredients for Italian Vegetable Stew (Ciambotta)

• 80ml olive oil

• 2 medium onions, chopped

• 2 celery ribs, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices

• 3 carrots, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices

• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 575g aubergine, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 120ml water

• 1 (800g) can whole tomatoes in juice, drained, juice reserved and tomatoes chopped, or 800g fresh tomatoes, chopped

• 2 red peppers, cut into 3/4-inch pieces

• 350g green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

• 575g courgette, halved lengthwise and cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices

• 350g boiling potatoes (about 2 medium), peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces

How to make Italian Vegetable Stew (Ciambotta)

Heat oil in a 7-to 8-quart heavy pot over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Add onions, celery, carrots, and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until pale golden, about 10 minutes. Add aubergine and water and cook, covered, stirring occasionally, until aubergine is slightly softened, about 10 minutes.

Stir in tomatoes with juice and peppers, then reduce heat to low and cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook green beans in a 3- to 4-quart saucepan of well-salted boiling water until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Transfer with a slotted spoon to a large bowl. Add courgette to boiling water and cook until crisp-tender, about 5 minutes. Transfer with slotted spoon to bowl with green beans. Add potatoes to boiling water and cook until just tender, about 10 minutes. Drain and add to beans and courgette.

Add boiled vegetables to stew and simmer, stirring, until all vegetables are very soft, about 15 minutes. Season with 1 1/2 teaspoons salt and 1/2 teaspoons pepper.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.