Eggplant and Bell Pepper Caponata
This vegan caponata is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer, side dish, or main course. It's made with eggplant, bell peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes, red wine, capers, and basil, and it's simmered until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and enjoy!
Caponata is a Sicilian dish that is typically made with eggplant, bell peppers, onions, olives, and capers. It is believed to have originated in the 18th century, and it has since become a popular dish throughout Italy and beyond. Our vegan version of caponata is made without olives, but it is still packed with flavor. We use a combination of red and yellow bell peppers for sweetness and color, and we add a touch of red wine to give it a rich, complex flavor. The capers add a salty, briny note, and the basil brightens up the dish with its fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Eggplant and Bell Pepper Caponata Eggplant and Bell Pepper Caponata Eggplant and Bell Pepper Caponata Eggplant and Bell Pepper Caponata
Prep time: 20 | Cook time: 40 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 medium eggplant, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1/2 cup vegan red wine
  • 1/4 cup capers
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
Instructions
  1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
  2. Add the eggplant and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned.
  3. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic and cook until softened.
  4. Stir in the tomatoes, red wine, capers, and basil.
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Why It Works
  • The combination of eggplant, bell peppers, onions, and garlic creates a delicious and flavorful base for the caponata.
  • Simmering the vegetables in red wine helps to develop their flavor and create a rich, complex sauce.
  • The capers add a salty, briny note that complements the sweetness of the vegetables.
  • The basil brightens up the dish with its fresh, herbaceous flavor.