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Ratatouille Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ratatouille

[หŒrรฆtษ™หˆtuหi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cuisine, dish

Ratatouille is a traditional Provenรงal vegetable dish made from a variety of ingredients, including zucchini, eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, onion, and herbs. It is typically served as a side dish or a main meal and is known for its vibrant colors and rich flavors. The vegetables are usually sautรฉed or stewed together, allowing their natural flavors to meld.

Synonyms

Provenรงal dish, vegetable stew.

Examples of usage

  • I made a delicious ratatouille for dinner.
  • The ratatouille was bursting with fresh vegetable flavors.
  • She learned to make ratatouille while living in France.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Culinary Origins

  • This dish comes from Provence, a region in the south of France, and it is a staple in Mediterranean cooking.
  • Traditionally made in summer, it showcases fresh seasonal vegetables, making it both healthy and colorful.
  • The name comes from the French verb 'ratatouiller', meaning to stir up, which reflects the cooking process.

Cultural Impact

  • The animated movie 'Ratatouille' (2007) brought global popularity to this dish through the charming story of a rat who dreams of being a chef.
  • In France, ratatouille is often served as a side dish but can also be enjoyed as a main course with bread or rice, showing its versatility.
  • The dish has inspired many chefs and home cooks to experiment with vegetables, leading to various interpretations and modern takes.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Packed with vitamins and nutrients, ratatouille primarily features vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, and tomatoes, which contribute to a balanced diet.
  • This dish is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
  • Ratatouille is also vegetarian and can easily be made vegan, appealing to a wide range of dietary preferences.

Literature

  • Ratatouille has inspired numerous cookbooks and food blogs, becoming synonymous with rustic French cuisine.
  • The dish is often featured in literature as a symbol of simple, honest cooking and the joys of using fresh ingredients.

Origin of 'ratatouille'

The word 'ratatouille' is derived from the French verb 'ratatouiller,' which means 'to stir up' or 'to toss.' This term reflects the method of preparation, where the ingredients are mixed and cooked together to enhance flavor. The dish originated in the Provence region of France and has its roots in rural cuisine, where locals used seasonal vegetables. Traditionally, ratatouille was a humble farmer's dish, made to use up surplus vegetables and served in rustic settings. Over time, it has evolved into a popular dish found in restaurants worldwide, often presented in more elaborate ways. It gained international fame in part due to the animated film 'Ratatouille' released in 2007, which showcased a rat aspiring to become a chef in Paris, further cementing the dish's image in popular culture.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #40,269, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.