A "meaty" stew

There are very few ways I can get away with a meatless meal in this house if it doesn't involve pasta.  I have to tread carefully when I try new dishes of this nature.  This one, fortunately, got Frank's approval...even after I got the "hmmph" over the phone when he asked what was for dinner.  

I had an eggplant I needed to use, along with leftover tomato paste in the fridge and a little bit of marinara sauce.  I threw this together and it hit the table 30 minutes later.  Quick, delicious and satisfying!  Oh yeah, and healthy :)

When will he realize I'll never let him down? 

What's your favorite meatless meal?  Try this soon - it may just end up at the top of your list.

Eggplant Stew with Polenta
5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 eggplant, cubed
2 plum tomatoes, chopped
2 teaspoons dried basil
2 teaspoons dried parsley
salt and pepper to taste
2 teaspoons tomato paste
3/4 cup marinara sauce
1/2 cup red wine
polenta (see this link for different ways to cook it)

In a medium size pot over medium-high heat, heat 3 tablespoons oil, then add onion and garlic.  Saute for about 1-2 minutes, then add eggplant.  Stir and add remaining oil, plus salt and pepper, basil and parsley.  Cook for about 3-4 minutes, then add tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

Stir in tomato paste, marinara and wine.  Cover, lower heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes.

Cook polenta and plate.  Add stew on top and serve.

Linked to: Tastetastic Thursday
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