Braseltouille: A Meat Lover’s Ratatouille Recipe

Ratatouille, the classic Provençal vegetable stew, is a celebration of summer’s bounty. But what if we wanted to kick it up a notch? Enter Braseltouille, a meat-atarian twist on the traditional dish that adds a hearty, savory element to this already delicious recipe. This recipe keeps the vibrant flavors of the original but incorporates meat, transforming it from a delightful side dish into a satisfying main course. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure where vegetables and meat unite in a harmonious and flavorful symphony!

## What is Braseltouille?

Braseltouille is essentially ratatouille with meat. We’re taking the core ingredients of the traditional dish – eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, onions, and garlic – and adding a protein element. This addition not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds substance, making it a complete and fulfilling meal. Think of it as ratatouille’s bolder, meatier cousin.

## Why Braseltouille?

* **Flavor Enhancement:** The addition of meat introduces umami and savory notes that complement the sweetness of the vegetables.
* **Hearty Meal:** Transforming a side dish into a main course with added protein provides a more satisfying and complete meal.
* **Versatility:** Braseltouille is incredibly versatile. You can use different types of meat, adjust the seasoning, and adapt it to your preferences.
* **Perfect for Meat Lovers:** If you enjoy ratatouille but crave something more substantial, Braseltouille is the ideal solution.
* **Great for Leftovers:** Like ratatouille, Braseltouille tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

## Choosing Your Meat

The beauty of Braseltouille is its adaptability. You can experiment with various types of meat to find your perfect combination. Here are a few suggestions:

* **Italian Sausage:** Adds a robust, savory flavor with a hint of spice. Choose either sweet or hot Italian sausage, depending on your preference.
* **Ground Beef:** A classic and versatile choice that provides a rich, meaty base.
* **Lamb:** Offers a unique and slightly gamey flavor that pairs beautifully with the vegetables. Consider using ground lamb or small lamb cubes.
* **Chicken:** A leaner option that still provides a good source of protein. Diced chicken thighs work best as they remain moist during cooking.
* **Pork:** Pork tenderloin or diced pork shoulder adds a delicious savory element.
* **Chorizo:** For those who enjoy a spicy kick, chorizo is an excellent choice. Its smoky flavor complements the sweetness of the vegetables.

For this recipe, we will be using **Italian Sausage**. It’s flavorful, readily available, and adds a wonderful depth to the dish.

## Ingredients for Braseltouille

* 1 pound Italian Sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed)
* 1 large Eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 2 Zucchini, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 2 Bell Peppers (red, yellow, or orange), seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces
* 1 large Onion, chopped
* 4 cloves Garlic, minced
* 1 (28 ounce) can Crushed Tomatoes
* 1 (15 ounce) can Tomato Sauce
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
* 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
* 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
* 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
* Salt and Black Pepper to taste
* Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
* Grated Parmesan Cheese (for serving, optional)

## Equipment

* Large Dutch oven or pot
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Spatula or wooden spoon

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make a delicious Braseltouille:

### Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

* Wash and dry all the vegetables thoroughly.
* Cut the eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers into 1-inch cubes. Consistency in size will ensure even cooking.
* Chop the onion into small pieces.
* Mince the garlic. Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor.

### Step 2: Brown the Sausage

* Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
* Remove the sausage from its casings and crumble it into the pot.
* Cook the sausage, breaking it up with a spatula or wooden spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
* Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside in a bowl. Leave any rendered fat in the pot, as it will add flavor to the vegetables.

### Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

* Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. If there’s already a significant amount of fat from the sausage, you may not need to add more oil.
* Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

### Step 4: Add the Vegetables

* Add the cubed eggplant, zucchini, and bell peppers to the pot.
* Season with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using).
* Stir well to combine the vegetables with the aromatics and seasonings.

### Step 5: Cook the Vegetables

* Cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened but not mushy. The vegetables should retain some of their shape and texture.
* If the vegetables start to stick to the bottom of the pot, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to deglaze the pan.

### Step 6: Add the Tomatoes and Sausage

* Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce.
* Return the cooked sausage to the pot.
* Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

### Step 7: Simmer the Braseltouille

* Bring the mixture to a simmer.
* Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

### Step 8: Adjust Seasoning

* Taste the Braseltouille and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, oregano, or basil to suit your preferences.

### Step 9: Serve and Garnish

* Serve the Braseltouille hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.
* Optional: Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

Braseltouille is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

* **As a Main Course:** Serve it on its own as a hearty and satisfying meal.
* **Over Pasta:** Toss it with your favorite pasta for a flavorful and easy dinner.
* **With Rice or Quinoa:** Serve it over rice or quinoa for a complete and balanced meal.
* **With Crusty Bread:** Enjoy it with crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful sauce.
* **As a Side Dish:** Although designed as a main dish, it can still be served as a robust side to grilled meats or fish.

## Tips and Variations

* **Roast the Vegetables:** For a deeper, more caramelized flavor, roast the vegetables in the oven before adding them to the pot. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes.
* **Add Herbs de Provence:** For a more authentic Provençal flavor, add 1-2 teaspoons of Herbs de Provence along with the other dried herbs.
* **Use Fresh Tomatoes:** If you have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can use them instead of canned tomatoes. Peel and chop about 4-5 large tomatoes.
* **Add Wine:** For a richer flavor, add 1/2 cup of red wine to the pot after sautéing the onions and garlic. Let it simmer for a few minutes to reduce before adding the vegetables.
* **Make it Spicy:** Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier Braseltouille.
* **Vegetarian Option:** To make it vegetarian, omit the sausage and add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas or white beans for protein.
* **Slow Cooker Version:** You can also make Braseltouille in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

## Storage Instructions

* **Refrigerate:** Store leftover Braseltouille in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Freeze:** Braseltouille freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

## Reheating Instructions

* **Stovetop:** Reheat Braseltouille in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
* **Microwave:** Reheat in the microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. Stir halfway through.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

*Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, especially the type of sausage.*

(Per serving, based on 6 servings):

* Calories: 350-450
* Protein: 20-25g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 20-25g
* Fiber: 5-7g

## Conclusion

Braseltouille is a delicious and satisfying twist on the classic ratatouille. By adding meat, you transform a simple vegetable stew into a hearty and flavorful main course that’s perfect for meat lovers and anyone looking for a more substantial meal. With its versatility and adaptability, Braseltouille is a recipe you can customize to your liking and enjoy year-round. So, gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and get ready to savor the delectable flavors of Braseltouille!

Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying take on a classic! Bon appétit!