### Autumn Ratatouille with Hilshire Farm Smoked Sausage Recipe
#### Introduction to Autumn Ratatouille
Autumn ratatouille is a twist on the classic French dish, adapted for the cooler seasons by adding hearty vegetables that thrive in fall and using the rich flavors of smoked sausage. This recipe combines fresh vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and onions with the smoky essence of Hilshire Farm Smoked Sausage to create a comforting, aromatic meal.
#### Ingredients
- 1 lb eggplant, diced
- 1 large zucchini, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (red or yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz Hilshire Farm Smoked Sausage, cut into small cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped
#### Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Colander (optional)
#### Steps to Make the Autumn Ratatouille with Hilshire Farm Smoked Sausage
1. **Prepare Vegetables**
- Wash and dice the eggplant, slice the zucchini, and clean and slice the bell peppers.
- Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. **Cook the Sausage**
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the Hilshire Farm Smoked Sausage cubes and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from the pan and set aside on a plate.
3. **Sauté Vegetables**
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil.
- Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and sauté for an additional 5 minutes.
4. **Add Eggplant and Zucchini**
- Add the diced eggplant to the pan and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender but still hold their shape.
- Add the sliced zucchini and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes until all the vegetables are soft.
5. **Combine Ingredients**
- Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for a minute to develop its flavor.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth.
- Return the cooked sausage to the pan, add salt, pepper, and thyme. Mix well.
6. **Simmer and Serve**
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing all flavors to meld together.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a little water or broth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
7. **Garnish and Enjoy**
- Ladle the ratatouille into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve hot as a hearty main dish or side to your favorite autumn meal.
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This recipe not only delivers a delicious meal but also highlights how versatile Hilshire Farm Smoked Sausage can be in various dishes. Enjoy your autumn culinary adventure!