Description
Ciambotta is a classic Italian vegetable stew featuring a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a savory tomato broth. This hearty, flavorful dish is perfect as a comforting meal on its own or as a side, highlighting traditional Italian flavors with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 eggplant, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces
- 1 onion, medium, chopped
- 2 potatoes, medium, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, medium, cut into ½-inch pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into ½-inch pieces
Broth and Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 cups chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water
- 1 can chopped tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ⅛ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Heat the 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, approximately 5 minutes, to develop a flavorful base.
- Cook the potatoes: Add the peeled and diced potatoes to the pot with the onions. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Add tomato paste and oregano: Stir in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and 1 teaspoon of dried oregano. Cook for about 1 minute to toast the spices and deepen the tomato flavor.
- Add remaining vegetables and liquids: Add the chopped eggplant, zucchini, red bell pepper, 2 cups of chicken broth (or vegetable broth or water), and one can of chopped tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes or until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld together.
- Season to taste: Taste the stew and adjust seasoning by adding salt and pepper as needed to balance and enhance the flavors.
- Add fresh parsley: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving to add a bright, fresh flavor that complements the hearty vegetables.
- Serve: Ladle the hot ciambotta into bowls, optionally garnished with additional fresh parsley for an attractive presentation and extra flavor.
Notes
- Cut vegetables uniformly into ½-inch pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the stew.
- Allow the stew to simmer gently to fully blend flavors and soften the vegetables to tender perfection.
- Adjust seasonings gradually and taste before serving to suit your personal preference.
- Fresh parsley enhances the flavor and presentation; use fresh from the garden if possible for the best aromatic impact.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
