Tomato ragout with aubergines and basil baked with cheese

Here's a recipe for Tomato Ragout with Aubergines and Basil Baked with Cheese—a comforting and flavorful dish that combines rich tomato sauce, tender aubergines (eggplants), fresh basil, and a cheesy topping.

Ingredients:

For the ragout:

• 2 medium aubergines (eggplants), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 cups canned diced tomatoes (or 4-5 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

For the cheese topping:

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for drizzling)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the aubergines:

• Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the cubed aubergines and cook until they begin to soften and brown, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Make the tomato ragout:

• In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
• Sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
• Simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.

4. Combine the vegetables and sauce:

• Add the cooked aubergines to the tomato ragout.
• Stir to combine and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
• Adjust seasoning if needed.

5. Assemble the dish:

• Transfer the tomato and aubergine mixture to a baking dish.
• Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
• If using, sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the cheese.
• Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the top for extra crispiness.

6. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

7. Garnish and serve:

• Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
• Garnish with fresh basil.

Tips:

• You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the ragout for added flavor and nutrition.
• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ragout.

This Tomato Ragout with Aubergines and Basil Baked with Cheese is a delicious and hearty dish that's perfect for a comforting dinner. Enjoy!