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Ruth's Eggplant Caponata

Ruth's Eggplant Caponata is a traditional Sicilian dish that has been passed down through generations in Ruth's family. This savory and sweet eggplant dish is a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal. It can be served as an appetizer with crusty bread, as a side dish to accompany grilled meats, or even as a topping for pasta or bruschetta. Ruth's Eggplant Caponata is a labor of love, requiring patience and attention to detail to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Prep Time:

20 mins

Cook Time:

20 mins

Additional Time:

30 mins

Total Time:

1 hr 10 mins

Servings:

Yield:

12 servings

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound Japanese or other small eggplant, cut into 1/2-inch cubes

1 onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground allspice

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 (14.5 ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes

1 cup water

⅓ cup dry red wine

1 bay leaf

2 tablespoons white sugar

3 tablespoons capers, drained

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

Directions

Step 1

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook eggplant, onion, garlic, oregano, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper, stirring frequently, until onion is slightly browned, 7 to 8 minutes.

Step 2

Reduce heat to medium and add tomatoes, water, wine, and bay leaf. Simmer, stirring frequently, until eggplant is tender and mixture is thickened, 13 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, capers, and vinegar. Let cool 30 minutes, then discard bay leaf. Serve at room temperature or chilled.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

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Fat

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Complement

The dish is made with roasted eggplant, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of herbs and spices that give it a unique and complex flavor profile. Ruth's Eggplant Caponata is a celebration of the rich and vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, and it has become a staple in Ruth's kitchen. Whether enjoyed on a warm summer evening with friends and family or as a comforting dish during the colder months, Ruth's Eggplant Caponata is a true taste of Sicily that will transport you to the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean.