MEDITERRANEAN VEGETABLE STEW

Steps:

• Put the eggplant and zucchini in a colander; toss with 1 1/2 teaspoon salt.
• Let stand for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
• Rinse under cold water; drain very well and pat dry with paper towels.
• In a large Dutch oven, heat 3 tablespoons oil over medium heat.
• Add in the eggplant and zucchini; cook and stir occasionally for 10 minutes or until lightly browned; Transfer to another bowl and set aside.
• Add the remaining 2 tablespoons oil to the Dutch oven; heat; add the onion, celery and red pepper.
• Cover and cook for 5 minutes or until the onion is tender.
• Add the garlic; cook for 1 minute.
• Add the wine and increase to high heat.
• Cook for about 3 minutes or until the wine is reduced by half.
• Add in the tomatoes with juice and the potatoes.
• Bring to a boil, lower heat, cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for 20 minutes.
• Add the eggplant and zucchini back to the pot; continue cooking and stirring for about 20 more minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
• Add in the chickpeas and basil; cook for 5 minutes or so, until the chickpeas are heated through.
• Add in the vinegar; stir.
• Season to taste with salt and pepper.
• I serve this hot over polenta or rice.