Ma Belle Mere's Ratatouille

Step 1

Heat 1/4 cup oil in a large, heavy pot over medium until shimmering. Add onion and peppers; cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to brown, 10 to 12 minutes. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add eggplants and remaining 1/4 cup oil and cook, stirring occasionally, until eggplants are softened and beginning to brown, 8 minutes.

Step 2

Add wine and tomatoes; season generously with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from bottom of pan. Add zucchini and herbs, reduce heat to medium, and cook, uncovered, until vegetables are tender and eggplants are beginning to break down, about 45 minutes. Adjust seasoning. Before serving, drizzle with oil and scatter with more basil leaves.