One-pot Cacciatore with zucchini spaghetti, not a cauliflower in sight !
Amongst all the Xmas prep that is about to commence, this is a great little one pot quickie. Probably more a cross between a ratatouille and a cacciatore, doesn’t matter, tastes great. Hopefully you do have some brandy essence in the house, as it gives off the boozy finish of a traditional cacciatore. The capers are also important as they offer the saltiness replacement to the anchovies.
I am about to commence all the Xmas recipes this weekend, starting off with a make ahead easy antipasto platter to take out to functions you have on with far too many temptations !
Joni ???
One-pot Cacciatore with zucchini spaghetti
2015-11-12 19:04:16
Serves 6
A super simple dish, a one pot wonder, great for a weekly cook up. Fairly plain but satisfying meal, definitely tasty without all the frills.
Cacciatore
- 1 medium eggplant, cut into about 3 cm cubes
- 2 handfuls of mushrooms, halved or quartered (whatever variety you like)
- 1 red capsicum, cut into chunks
- 1 brown onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, chopped finely
- 2 tsp oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 X 400g can low salt & low sugar chopped tomatoes
- 2 tbs olive oil
- 1 tsp brandy essence (optional)
- 3 cups of chicken stock (or vegetarian alt.)
- 1 tbs basil (fresh chopped or tube)
- 1 tbs parsley (fresh chopped or tube) - plus 1 tsp for the topping
- 2 tbs capers (rinsed if salted)
- Pinch of cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper
Zucchini spaghetti
- 2 zucchinis, peeled to remove the green outer (optional) and then spiralised
Instructions
- In a large fry pan, heat the olive oil. Add the onion, garlic, oregano and cook for 5 mins. Add the eggplant, capsicum, mushrooms, bay leaves and 1 tbs of the capers. Stir for 5 mins until everything softens.
- Add the chopped tomatoes, brandy essence (if using), stock, basil, cayenne pepper and parsley. Cook for approximately 25 to 35 minutes (see pic).
- Once done, if using, add the spiralised zucchini. Stir for a few minutes until cooked through.
- Season very well with black pepper and salt. Serve, adding the leftover capers and parsley on top. This is a very wet dish, so use a spoon to scoop up the last of the gravy.
Notes
- Can be served on top of cauliflower polenta instead of the zucchini or other vegetables such as green beans.
- The brandy essence replaces the wine usually used, gives the flavour a bit of a "boozy" taste.
- Add sliced chicken thighs to the cacciatore once you have taken your portion out for a great family friendly meal.
- Freezes very well cooked, a great reheater. Can be watery, so ensure you mix if well if microwaving.
- Flavours develop if left overnight.
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