Ratatouille is a dish that has grown in popularity over the last few years . It features eggplant , zucchini , tomatoes , peppers , and garlic chopped , mixed , sautéed , and finally , cooked slowly over low heat . As the vegetables cook slowly , they make their own broth , which may be extended with a little tomato paste . The name ratatouille comes from the French word touiller , meaning to stir or mix together.