Kapunata

Kapunata

Kapunata (kah-poo-NAH-tah)

Maltese Ratatouille

Prep Time 20 min
📈 Difficulty Easy
👥 Servings
4
🔥 Calories 194 kcal

A vibrant Maltese vegetable stew of eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, capers, and olives, simmered in olive oil until meltingly tender.

Nutrition & Info

190 kcal per serving
Protein 4.0g
Carbs 22.0g
Fat 10.0g
Protein Carbs Fat

Dietary

vegetarian dairy-free gluten-free nut-free

Equipment Needed

large skillet cutting board sharp knife

Presentation Guide

Vessel: wide shallow bowl

Garnishes: fresh basil, olive oil

Accompaniments: crusty bread

Instructions

  1. 1

    Salt eggplant cubes, let drain 20 min, then pat dry.

  2. 2

    Fry eggplant in olive oil until golden. Remove and drain.

  3. 3

    In the same pan, sauté onion and peppers until soft. Add garlic.

  4. 4

    Add tomatoes, capers, and olives. Simmer 15 min.

  5. 5

    Return eggplant to the pan. Add vinegar and basil. Stir gently.

  6. 6

    Serve warm or at room temperature — it improves overnight.

💡

Did You Know?

Like its Sicilian cousin caponata, kapunata tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.

Chef's Notes

Equipment Tips

  • large skillet
  • cutting board
  • sharp knife

Garnishing

fresh basil, olive oil

Accompaniments

crusty bread

The Story Behind Kapunata

Kapunata is Malta's version of Sicilian caponata, reflecting centuries of Sicilian cultural influence on the islands. The dish showcases the summer vegetables that thrive in Malta's hot Mediterranean climate.

🕐 Traditionally enjoyed summer side dish 📜 Origins: Sicilian influence

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