Here’s a recipe for Fried Courgettes with Tomato Sauce and Caramelized Onions—a savory and flavorful dish that pairs the crispy courgettes (zucchini) with rich tomato sauce and sweet caramelized onions.
Ingredients:
For the fried courgettes:
- 2-3 medium courgettes (zucchini), sliced into rounds or strips
- 1 cup flour (or cornmeal for a gluten-free option)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
For the tomato sauce:
- 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the caramelized onions:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar (optional for faster caramelization)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Fry the courgettes:
- Slice the courgettes into thin rounds or strips (about 1/4 inch thick).
- Season the courgette slices with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the slices in flour, then dip them in the beaten eggs, ensuring they’re fully coated.
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Fry the courgette slices in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each side for about 2-3 minutes, until golden and crispy.
- Transfer the fried courgettes to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Keep warm while you prepare the sauce and onions.
2. Make the tomato sauce:
- In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar (if using), oregano or basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Simmer the sauce on low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors develop.
3. Caramelize the onions:
- In a large pan, heat butter or olive oil over low heat.
- Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with a pinch of salt and sugar (if using).
- Cook the onions slowly over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes until they turn golden brown and caramelized. The slow cooking process brings out the sweetness in the onions.
4. Assemble the dish:
- On a serving platter, arrange the fried courgette slices in a layer.
- Spoon the tomato sauce generously over the courgettes.
- Top with the caramelized onions for a sweet contrast to the savory tomato sauce and crispy courgettes.
Serve:
- This dish can be served warm as a main course or a side. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad to round out the meal.
Enjoy the balance of flavors in this comforting and satisfying dish!
