CROCKPOT ITALIAN EGGPLANT

 1 1/4 lbs eggplant, cut into 1-inch cubes

2 medium onions, sliced thin
2 ribs of celery, coarse chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 can (1-lb) diced tomatoes with juice
3 tbsp tomato sauce
1/2 cup sliced ripe olives
2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp capers, drained
1 tsp basil
1/2 tsp oregano
salt to taste
pepper to taste

Combine the eggplant, onions, celery, olive oil, tomatoes and tomato sauce in a slow cooker or crock-pot; cover and cook on low 3 1/2 to 4 hours until the eggplant is tender.  Stir in the olives, balsamic vinegar, sugar, capers, and seasonings.  Replace lid and cook for another hour to blend the flavors and heat through.
Yield: 6 servings

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