Francis Lam's Weapons-Grade Ratatouille

Once a year, when all the produce is in season I spend ~5-6 hours lazily babysitting a pot to make this absolutely transcendent meal. I serve it with baguette and fancy cheeses to make it truly provincial. I also highly recommend The Splendid Table episode where a comedian cooks this and makes a video diary (episode 718: Things You’ve Gotta Try). It’s hilarious and also lets you know what you’re in for—a long haul journey to flavor town.