Provençal Vegetable Tian (Tian Provençal)
Tian provençal Say it: tee-ahn proh-vahn-sahl
Tian provençal is a classic Provençal vegetable bake where thin slices of zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and tomatoes are layered in an earthenware dish and baked slowly with olive oil and fragrant herbs. Hailing from Provence in southern France, this dish is a staple of summer meals, served as a side to grilled meats or with crusty bread. The slow cooking caramelizes the vegetables, bringing out their natural sweetness. Its simplicity relies on the quality of fresh produce, olive oil, and herbes de Provence.
Provençal Vegetable Tian (Tian Provençal)
Tian provençal
Pronounced tee-ahn proh-vahn-sahl
- Serves
- 4
- Prep
- 25 min
- Cook
- 50 min
- Total
- 1 hr 15 min
- Level
- Medium
Also nut-free and egg-free.
Allergens: none of the major allergens in the listed ingredients. Check labels on packaged ingredients.
Ingredients
Amounts are scaled. Cooking times and pan sizes stay the same.
Vegetables
Seasonings and Oil
Method
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the bottom and sides of a 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish or a traditional earthenware tian dish with a little of the olive oil.
Arrange the vegetable slices in overlapping layers or in a colorful pattern, placing the eggplant, zucchini, peppers, onions, and tomatoes in the dish.
Drizzle the remaining olive oil evenly over the vegetables, then sprinkle with the minced garlic, dried thyme, herbes de Provence, salt, and pepper.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove the foil and continue baking for 15 to 20 minutes more, until the vegetables are tender and the edges are golden and caramelized.
Let the tian rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Regional variants
A heartier version can include thinly sliced potatoes or carrots layered with the other vegetables. Some cooks also add a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving.
Cook's notes
- A mandoline slicer ensures even, thin slices that cook uniformly.
- If the vegetables release excess liquid after baking, you can carefully pour it off before covering.
- For deeper flavor, let the sliced vegetables marinate in the oil and herbs for 15 minutes before baking.
Serve with
Grilled meats, roasted fish, or a crusty baguette.
Make ahead and storage
Tian provençal can be made up to 2 days ahead; store covered in the refrigerator and reheat in a 325°F (160°C) oven until warm.
