RECIPE: Eggplant with Chunky Tomato Sauce

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Note: Simmering the eggplant in water removes the bitterness, gives it a creamy texture, and allows it to be cooked with no added fat.

servings: 4

Ingredients:

6 tomatoes

1 to 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, plus sprigs for garnish, or 1 teaspoon dried

Salt and freshly ground black pepper

4 small eggplants, (about 3 to 4 ounces each)

1 cup ricotta cheese

Directions:

1. Cut tomatoes into large chunks. In a large skillet over medium heat, saute garlic in olive oil until golden brown. Add tomatoes, thyme leaves, and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 7 minutes, or until sauce is thick. Keep warm.

2. While sauce is cooking, prick eggplants in several places with a fork. Bring a saucepan of salted water to a boil, and add eggplants. Cover and simmer 10 minutes, or until eggplants are tender.

3. Drain eggplants, and place one on each of four plates. Slit open eggplants, and spoon some tomato sauce inside each one. Garnish each plate with a spoonful of ricotta and a sprig of thyme.