A TOUCH OF THE SOUTH OF FRANCE

RATATOUILLE NICOISE A LA ME - you've seen the film, now try the dish - serves 4

1 large aubergine chopped into square chunks
2 courgettes sliced round
2 green peppers sliced
2 red peppers sliced
2 onions sliced
500g fresh tomatoes chopped
2 cloves garlic crushed
4 dessert spoons tomato puree
3 dessert spoons olive oil
salt & pepper
1 dessert spoon herbes de Provence, (mixed Provencal herbs)

Heat the oil in a large saucepan then add the aubergines, green & red peppers, courgettes, onions & tomatoes, cook over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring.
Stir in the crushed garlic, tomato puree and herbs and mix together, cook for further 5 minutes stirring.
Add salt & pepper to your taste and leave to simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally taking care it does not stick to the bottom of the pan.
Serve hot or chilled with grilled steak or fish.