Choosing the product
Choose firm vegetables with sound skin. Size determines pieces and pan space; skin colour alone cannot define a universal cooking rule.
Preparing and using it
Cut evenly and brown in batches. Distribute the measured oil rather than repeatedly adding more. Test flesh with a knife, then finish with tomatoes and other vegetables.
Substitutions and adaptations
Oven cooking can prepare pieces before combining, but changes equipment and sequencing. Courgette or mushroom makes a different texture, not an exact replacement.
Mistakes to avoid
Brown outside does not always mean tender inside. Lower heat if colouring too fast. Salting in advance is not a universal requirement.
