Eggplant (Aubergine) Salad/Caviar

blazer380's Note:

This is a very easy and healthy addition to any meal. Makes a great side dish or as a dip. Also known as Baklazhanovaya Ikra in Russian. You will need a larger non-stick skillet (at least 12 inches wide and 3 inches tall). Also two hand-fulls of cherry tomatoes can be substituted for the two medium tomatoes.

• Total Time: 1 hrs
• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 45 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 6

• 1 large eggplant
• 2 medium tomatoes (on the vine or hothouse)
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1 large yellow onion
• 1 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes (unsalted, with basil, garlic, and oregano)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 5 fresh garlic cloves

Directions:

1. Chop and caramelize the onions on a skillet (with a little bit of olive oil) over medium heat until they are golden but not burnt.
2. While the onions are cooking, without peeling the eggplant, cut it into about 1/2 inch cubes. And place in a large bowl.
3. Chop the bell pepper and add to bowl.
4. Cut the tomatoes and add to bowl.
5. Take the cooked onions, finely chop them, and add to bowl.
6. Add the red pepper flakes, salt, and finely chopped garlic to the bowl.
7. Mix all the ingredients in the bowl and transfer to a 12 inch non-stick skillet.
8. Pour the contents of the tomato can on top of what's in the skillet and mix it a little bit.
9. Cover with a lid and cook on low/medium heat. Keep mixing the contents every 10-15 minutes to cook things evenly and prevent burning. If you notice sticking to pan, reduce heat.
10. The dish is ready when most of the liquid has evaporated and all the ingredients are soft and fully cooked. Approximately 45 minutes.
11. Place in fridge to cool the salad since it's best served chilled.