Farro e Melanzane (Spelt and Eggplant)

The autumn is a perfect time to visit Tuscany. You will find a wealth of autumnal produce like squash, mushrooms, and delicious varieties of kale. This classic recipe from Chef Claudio includes the last of the summer eggplant and spelt or barley. Much like another favorite Tuscan dish, ribollita, this is not the most colorful dish. But it’s hearty and delicious!

Check out all our cooking vacations in Italy.

Farro e Melanzane (Spelt and Eggplant)

Serves: 10
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 65 minutes
Cook method: Sauté, Simmer

Ingredients

• 200 grams eggplant, diced
• 200 grams peeled tomatoes, chopped
• 4 to 6 fresh basil leaves
• 1 clove crushed garlic
• salt as needed
• 5 tablespoons oil
• 350 grams spelt (or barley)

Cook in Tuscany on our Living the Real Tuscan Dream cooking vacation. 

Instructions
1. Wash and dice the eggplant.

2. Add olive oil to a pot and sauté the garlic and the eggplant until golden brown, adding a bit of salt to taste.

3. Add water to the mixture filling up the pot about 2/3 full.

4. Add the spelt, the tomatoes and the basil, adjusting the salt if needed.

5. Cook over moderate heat for about 45 minutes. Add more water if necessary. (Check the spelt after about 25 minutes – depending on the variety you get it might cook more quickly.)

6. Serve in soup bowls topped with a drizzle of olive oil.

Check out additional recipes for traditional Tuscan dishes. And try pairing them with wonderful Tuscan wines!

• Necci (Chestnut Flour Crepes)
• Squash and Barley Soup
• Cantuccini

Or, browse more of our blogs featuring what we love about Tuscany:

• Our Favorite Tuscany Trips
• Pisa Day Trip
• 6 Florence Favorites

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