Provençal Crumble

Background & Description

The Provençal Crumble is a delightful dish that blends the rustic charms of Southern France with a unique twist on a classic dessert. Provençal, a region in southeastern France, is celebrated for its scenic landscapes and vibrant produce, brimming with flavors from olives, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. This crumble takes inspiration from this rich agricultural heritage, offering a savory option for lovers of French cuisine.

The idea behind the Provençal Crumble emerges from the traditional fruit-based crumbles, which originated in Britain during World War II. These crumbles were quick to prepare, required minimal ingredients, and adapted well to the times of rationing by replacing more ingredient-intensive pies. However, our dish transcends this notion by incorporating savory vegetables, providing a new experience that celebrates the bounty of Provence.

Ingredients

• Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
• Eggplant - 1 large, diced
• Zucchini - 1 large, sliced
• Tomatoes - 3 medium, chopped
• Bell Pepper - 1, chopped
• Onion - 1, finely diced
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Fresh thyme - 3 sprigs
• Fresh rosemary - 2 sprigs
• Fresh basil - 1 handful, chopped
• All-purpose flour - 1 cup
• Butter - 1/2 cup, chilled and diced
• Parmesan cheese - 1/2 cup, grated
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables

Begin by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the onion and sauté until translucent. Following this, add the garlic and sauté for another minute until aromatic. Stir in the eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes, and bell pepper. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they are soft. Incorporate the thyme, rosemary, along with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Making the Crumble Topping

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the two until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Cooking

Step 3: Assembling and Baking

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Transfer the prepared vegetables into a baking dish, spreading them evenly. Top the vegetable mixture with the crumble topping, ensuring that it is distributed evenly across the surface. Bake the dish for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crispy. For accuracy, it's advisable to use a cooking timer to ensure optimal cooking.

Serving Suggestions

The Provençal Crumble is best served warm, garnished with freshly chopped basil. It pairs excellently with a side salad or a slice of crusty French bread. For a hearty meal, consider serving it with a glass of crisp white wine, such as a chilled Sauvignon Blanc. Enjoy your meal alongside family or friends while relishing the sunny essence of Provençal cuisine.