Lusty eggplant relish

1 Servings

Ingredients

QuantityIngredient
3poundsEggplants
2tablespoonsSalt
cupExtra virgin olive oil
1smallOnion, thinly sliced
1smallRed bell pepper, julienned
6Garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1teaspoonOregano leaves or
1teaspoonDried oregano
1teaspoonCapers, drained
½teaspoonDried hot red pepper flakes
3cupsWhite wine vinegar
2tablespoonsSugar

Directions

1. Peel the eggplant and cut into ⅛ inch julienne strips about 2 inches long. Place the eggplant in a colander, add the salt and toss well. Cover the colander, place over a large bowl, and let stand 1 hour.

2. Combine the oil, onion, pepper and garlic in a large, heavy, non-reactive Dutch oven or deep skillet, place over medium heat, and saute the mixture for 5 minutes. Add the eggplant and saute until golden on all sides, about 5 minutes. Stir in the oregano, capers, and hot pepper flakes.

3. Remove the pan from the heat and divide the eggplant mixture among 6 sterilized half-pint jars.

4. Return the Dutch oven to the stove and add the vinegar and sugar.

Turn the heat up to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and spoon the liquid mixture equally into the 6 eggplant jars, leaving a ¼ inch head space in each jar.

5. Seal the jars and process in a boiling water bath for 15 minutes.

Let cool and store in a cool, dark place for 2 to 3 weeks before using.

SOURCE: John Hadamuscin in "From My House To Yours"