Topic “Veggies”

Part of the Puerto Rican tradition, the parrandas is when a bunch of us get together to eat, sing, and visit people to sing, and eat, at their places. This usually goes all night long and many times the visitees are not even notified. This makes it all the more fun.

If I had to describe this dish to most non-vegetarians where I come from, I would call it a vegetarian fricassee. People would still be confused, but that's okay because it still tastes good. In all honesty, it cannot be called a fricassee for the simple reason that a fricassee, by definition, is a stew in which the meat is browned and simmered in its own juices along with the rest of the ingredients. I don't see any meat there.

This is one of the simplest things to make. It works perfect as a side dish, over rice, as hors d'œuvre with crackers, or just on its own. One of my favorite kitchen smells is actually onion being caramelized in butter. Whenever I smell that, I just have to grab a piece and eat it.

Ever since I saw the movie Ratatouille I wanted to cook one. You know how you sometimes say "I'd like to do this...I'll set some time for doing that" and you never do it? Well, cooking a ratatouille is one of those things you never set your mind to do even though it's really easy.

Really, Victor, what is a ratatouille? Good question. It could either be a bunch of overcooked vegetables thrown in together, or it could be a tasty medley of fresh veggies. One good thing about ratatouille, though, is that it's a very healthy and hearty dish. The meatiness of the eggplant, along with all the combined flavors, gives it a feeling that sets it apart from other vegetarian meals.