Caponata: Sicilian Eggplant Relish

Ingredients

• 3 globe eggplants
• 1 celery stalk
• 1 white onion sliced
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 4 ounces imported capers
• 4 ounces kalamata olives pitted
• 4 ounces diced fresh tomatoes
• 1 bunch basil chopped
• 2 tablespons salt
• 2 tablspoons pepper

Instructions

1. 1
   Cut the eggplant into two-inch cubes and fry it until it is cooked through. Set aside. Next, cut the celery into one-inch pieces and boil them for 7 minutes.
2. 2
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the sliced onions in two tablespoons of the vegetable oil. When the onions are translucent, add the red wine vinegar. Let the vinegar evaporate and then add the sugar. Next, add the capers, olives, basil, tomatoes cooked celery, salt, and pepper.
3. 3
   Bring the mixture to a simmer, and then add the fried eggplant. Cook for another five minutes and serve.