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Crockpot ratatouille French vegetable stew

Crockpot Ratatouille

This crockpot ratatouille is a simple French slow cooker vegetable stew made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes. It is cozy, nourishing, and perfect as a side dish, vegetarian main, or meal prep base.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine: French
Calories: 145

Ingredients
  

Optional Add-Ins

Equipment

  • 6-quart slow cooker: Cooks the vegetables low and slow for deep, developed flavor
  • Chef’s knife For evenly chopping vegetables
  • cutting board Prep surface for produce
  • Measuring spoons and cups: For oil and seasonings
  • Wooden spoon: For stirring before and after cooking

Method
 

  1. Add the diced eggplant, zucchini, onion, and bell peppers to a 6-quart slow cooker.
  2. Stir in the grated garlic, olive oil, crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, French seasoning, and bay leaf until evenly combined.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours or HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until vegetables are tender but not mushy.
  4. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh basil and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  5. Serve warm as a side dish, over grains, or with crusty bread.

Video

Notes

  • Vegetable options: Japanese eggplant gives a slightly sweeter, creamier texture. Yellow squash can replace zucchini.
  • Texture tip: For a thicker stew, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
  • Flavor boosts: Stir in 1 tbsp tomato paste or finish with a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
  • Serving ideas: Serve over polenta, pasta, quinoa, or couscous. Also delicious with toasted sourdough or topped with a fried egg.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop. Freezes well for up to 3 months.
  • Nutrition (per serving, 6 servings): 145 calories, 8g fat, 18g carbs, 4g protein, 6g fiber. Nutrition information is an estimate. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.